Commission approves amendment to conditional use permits allowing two servals and larger private kennel on 10-acre property

The Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday approved amendments to two conditional use permits that will allow a breeder on a 10‑acre rural property to keep two serval cats (an exotic species) and expand a private kennel to allow up to 20 domestic cats and two dogs.

Karen Miller of the Planning Department briefed commissioners on the application. The property, west of Olathe, has operated a Savannah cat breeding program under prior permits since 2018; staff reported no complaints during routine inspections and said the kennel building and outdoor enclosures were well maintained, enclosed and screened from view. The zoning commission recommended approval and suggested a 15‑year permit term.

Miller described the serval as a medium‑sized wild cat and explained the proposed changes would reconfigure cages inside the existing kennel building but would not enlarge the structure. She noted the outdoor enclosure has double perimeter fencing, a top enclosure and a foundation to prevent digging.

Commissioners asked about the permit history and escapes; Miller said the original permit issued around 2017, was granted a 10‑year term in 2020, and staff had no reports of escapes. Several commissioners praised the applicants’ management and neighborly record.

Commissioner Allen Brand moved approval of Resolution 204‑25 to amend the CUPs; Commissioner Hanslick seconded. The roll call vote was 7–0 in favor.

Ending: The amended permits allow continued Savannah cat breeding and the expanded kennel operation under the approved stipulations; the county will continue periodic site visits to ensure compliance.