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Commission approves first reading of leash, animal-control ordinance aligning city rules with county
Summary
The Winter Garden City Commission gave unanimous first-reading approval to Ordinance 26-10, which would replace and align the city's animal control rules with Orange County provisions to strengthen leash and owner-control requirements, refine park restrictions and adjust the dog-friendly dining program; second reading is scheduled for April 2026.
The Winter Garden City Commission on Thursday gave unanimous first-reading approval to Ordinance 26-10, a comprehensive update to the city's animal-control code intended to align local rules with Orange County's animal-control ordinance.
Staff member Mark (staff) told the commission the ordinance would "repeal and replace existing animal control provisions and to adopt the Orange County ... services ordinance as amended" and would establish citywide leash and direct-control requirements, refine restrictions for animals in parks and recreation facilities, and update the dog-friendly dining program. "With that, staff recommends approval of ordinance 26-10 with the second reading and adoption anticipated on April 2026," Mark said.
Commissioner Colin moved approval of first reading and requested a second reading and public hearing; the motion carried unanimously. No members of the public spoke during the hearing.
Why it matters: City staff said the changes are intended to reinforce public safety and health while ensuring local rules remain aligned with county-level provisions. The ordinance text cited minimal expected economic impact on private establishments beyond normal pet-friendly operating costs.
Next steps: The commission scheduled a second reading and public hearing on April 23, 2026, where final adoption will be considered.
