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Madison County adopts ordinance banning livestock at large on public highways
Summary
The Madison County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2025-9 to make it unlawful to allow livestock to run at large on public highways; the measure creates enforcement discretion and a $100 fee triggered on a third offense within 90 days, and will be codified in chapter 6, article 201 of county code.
The Madison County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday adopted Ordinance 2025-9, making it unlawful to allow livestock to run at large on public highways.
Mister Cave, who presented the draft ordinance, said the change responds to repeated incidents of animals on roadways, typically caused by poor fencing, and is aimed at repeat offenders. “If your livestock gets out three times in 90 days, the third time triggers the $100 fee,” Cave said while describing enforcement discretion for officers and animal control.
Staff and board members discussed enforcement and exceptions. A staff member noted the ordinance draft includes discretion similar to a traffic stop, allowing officers and the county’s animal control authority to consider acts of God and isolated incidents. County staff said the ordinance would be codified in chapter 6, article 201 of the county code if passed.
The board moved, seconded and approved the ordinance by voice vote. The chair and supervisors indicated the change provides another tool for deputies and animal control to address repeat problems and public-safety risks from animals in travel lanes.
The ordinance was presented during a public hearing and passed by the board; the county will publish the adopted language in the code. No amendment to the fee or enforcement schedule was recorded at the meeting.
