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University Heights committee removes feeding clause from nuisance code
Summary
The committee voted unanimously to remove a subsection that criminalized feeding stray or wild animals; the change modernizes a 1972 provision while retaining the requirement to remove pet feces from others' property immediately.
University Heights' Building and Housing Committee on Dec. 16 voted to remove a subsection of the nuisance code that had criminalized feeding stray dogs, cats and other wild animals.
Law Director Brad Bryan told the committee the section dated to 1972 and would criminalize acts such as dogs urinating or defecating on other people's property; the revised language preserves the requirement that pet owners remove feces deposited on another's property but drops the prohibition on feeding wild animals. "You still have to clean up your dog's poop immediately, but it does not criminalize your dog peeing on the walk," Bryan said.
Councilmember Brian King moved to remove subsection C, which would have prohibited "providing food for any stray dog, stray cat, or other wild animal," and Councilmember Christopher Cooney seconded the motion. "All in favor said 'aye,'" the clerk recorded and the motion passed unanimously.
Bryan said the feeding clause could be restored later if the council preferred; committee members who spoke said they had not received complaints tied to the feeding language and supported removal. The committee then moved to adjourn.
What happens next: the ordinance text will be updated to reflect the removal of subsection C and proceed through standard council procedures.
