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Council adopts first‑reading amendments to city animal code to limit pet‑store housing of adoptable animals
Summary
On first reading the council approved Ordinance 4‑2026 to clarify that pet stores may host adoption events but may not house animals overnight, impose permit rules and a cap on adoption fees; staff will review whether the suggested $300 cap should be updated.
Palm Beach Gardens — The City Council approved Ordinance 4‑2026 on first reading to tighten rules governing pet‑store adoption events and close a loophole that allowed animals to be housed overnight inside retail stores.
City Attorney Max Lohman explained the ordinance updates are intended to prevent pet stores from effectively operating as retail sellers or holding animals on premises outside of temporary adoption events. The ordinance redefines adoption events, limits the number and duration of events, requires permits and a fee for events, and places a cap on adoption fees intended to help rescue organizations recoup veterinary and spay/neuter costs without creating incentives for commercial sales.
Council members expressed support for closing the loophole; staff noted the typical adoption fee range used by rescues is between $200 and $300, and agreed to research whether the $300 cap needs updating before final reading. Council approved the ordinance on first reading by a unanimous 5‑0 vote.
Next steps: staff will review current adoption fee norms and return with any recommended adjustments ahead of final reading.
