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After referendum fight, supervisors waive first reading to repeal multiple‑pet permit ordinance
Summary
Following heavy public debate and a citizen petition, Mariposa supervisors voted 5‑0 to waive first reading and introduce an ordinance repealing the county’s multiple‑pet permit provision; the board and staff said the original measure intended inspections with conditions, not warrantless searches.
The Mariposa County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Dec. 16 to waive the first reading and introduce an ordinance repealing Mariposa County Code section 6.08.265 (the multiple‑pet permit), after residents gathered signatures calling for rescission.
Clerk of the Board Danielle Bonchu explained the item as a cleanup following a successful petition. Multiple supervisors spent substantial time recounting how misinformation on social media conflated inspections required by the permit with warrantless property searches. “Search and inspection are not synonymous,” Supervisor Menachery said, arguing the permit’s inspection language had been mischaracterized.
Supporters of the original permit language and staff framed the rule as a conditional permit designed to address animal‑hoarding situations by ensuring adequate shelter, feeding and care through inspections and compliance steps. Opponents and petitioners contested the language and pushed the referendum, which led to the repeal process.
Action taken
The board voted 5‑0 to waive the first reading and introduce the repeal ordinance. Supervisors said they expect the issue to return in future meetings — likely with revised, clearer language if the board pursues a regulatory tool to address animal welfare and neighbor complaints.
Next steps
The repeal proceeds through the county’s ordinance process. Board members asked staff to consider clearer language and additional public engagement should the board decide to revisit animal‑welfare regulation in the future.
