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Wasco County adopts countywide pets-in-workplace policy, sets July 1 effective date
Summary
The Board of Commissioners approved a countywide 'Animals in Wasco County Owned or Leased Facilities' policy to standardize rules, require ADA accommodations via HR’s interactive process, and implement a 45-day transition for employees with animals. The policy prohibits personal pets in county facilities except approved service or program support animals.
Wasco County commissioners adopted a countywide Pets in the Workplace policy and procedures on June 3, 2026, with an official effective date of July 1.
Human Resources Director Fiona Ferguson said the policy responds to citizen complaints, concerns about facility wear and tear, and inconsistent department practices. The policy prohibits personal pets in county-owned or -leased facilities, establishes an ADA‑compliant interactive accommodation process for employees who request service or support animals, and provides a 45‑day transition period for current pets while accommodation requests are processed.
The policy defines permitted categories — service animals (per ADA), working animals, program support animals and small aquatic life — and requires handlers to follow sanitation, licensing and control rules. Fiona Ferguson said the county will provide staff training and "if/then" protocols for front-facing departments to manage encounters with members of the public who bring animals into county buildings. Facility Director Robert Hughes said building impacts (odor, damage, staff discomfort) motivated adopting a single countywide standard.
The board voted unanimously to adopt the policy and authorized the implementation steps described in the packet, including education and enforcement protocols. The policy document was vetted by County Counsel and by the county’s insurer (Citycounty Insurance Service).
