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St. Mary Parish bans feeding of stray cats and dogs in unincorporated areas
Summary
By a 10-0 roll call, the council adopted Ordinance No. 2423 prohibiting feeding of stray cats and dogs in unincorporated St. Mary Parish, with exceptions for veterinarians and certain agencies and a graduated fine schedule ($50, $100, $200).
St. Mary Parish Council adopted Ordinance No. 2423 on Feb. 11, 2026, prohibiting the feeding of stray cats and dogs on residential and public property in unincorporated areas of the parish.
The ordinance defines "feed" and "stray," cites public-health and nuisance rationales (including risk of rabies, vermin attraction and rodent harborage), and exempts veterinarians and authorized personnel acting within their employment with governmental entities, nonprofit organizations or humane societies. It establishes a graduated penalty schedule: $50 for a first violation, $100 for a second, $200 for the third and subsequent violations.
Mr. Patrick Hebert moved to adopt the ordinance and Mr. David W. Hill seconded; the council adopted Ordinance No. 2423 by roll call vote 10-0-0-1. The ordinance becomes effective upon publication in the parish's official journal. Councilmembers asked questions during prior public comment about enforcement, proof required for violations and notification to residents; the ordinance assigns enforcement steps to the Sheriff's Department and summons/complaint procedures for violators.
