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Calvert County to seek public comment on revised animal‑control ordinance; fancier license split from commercial licensing
Summary
The Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 5 authorized staff to advertise a public hearing on proposed updates to the county’s animal‑control ordinance, separating an "animal fancier" license from commercial licensing and proposing exemptions for active farm and hunting dogs.
The Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 5 authorized staff to advertise a public hearing on proposed changes to Chapter 7 of the Calvert County Code governing animals, animal licensing and enforcement.
Deacon Coleman, deputy director of Animal Services, presented the draft ordinance and described the goals: align county rules with modern animal‑welfare standards, increase accountability for owners and animal‑related businesses, and streamline enforcement and administrative processes. Coleman said the last major update to Chapter 7 was in 2008 and that the department had separated an "animal fancier" license from commercial licensing to simplify requirements for responsible pet owners who keep multiple animals.
Key elements in the draft ordinance discussed at the work session:
- Distinction between agricultural and domestic animals; animals actively used on farms (herding or guardian dogs) and hunting dogs may be exempt from the animal‑fancier threshold if the owner attests to active use. - Animal fancier licenses are annual; the county is working toward online licensing and reminder systems but currently processes licenses at the shelter. - Nonprofit rescue organizations would be licensed but not charged a license fee. - Commercial kennels and animal businesses would provide a minimal emergency preparedness plan and at least two points of contact to facilitate animal care if the business cannot operate. - County staff added language recognizing an upcoming Maryland law prohibiting inhumane confinement of roosters; staff said the state law takes effect January 2027 and the county ordinance updates anticipate that requirement.
Commissioners approved a motion directing staff to advertise the proposed ordinance for public comment; a public hearing date was to be scheduled following the authorization. County staff said the online licensing rollout and reminder features would require additional time and coordination with technology services.
Animal Services asked residents to support the county shelter through volunteering, fostering and donations; staff also said unused prescription medications can be returned using pharmacy or health‑department drop boxes.
