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Town Board adopts 'Regulation of Animals' as Local Law No. 1 of 2026
Summary
The Town of Tuxedo on March 25 adopted a new local law regulating domestic animals, setting numeric limits for cats/dogs, density rules for horses and livestock, coop setbacks for fowl and escalating fines for repeat violations; the adoption passed 5–0.
The Town of Tuxedo Town Board adopted Local Law No. 1 of 2026, titled “Regulation of Animals,” at its March 25 special meeting. Supervisor Dave McMillen moved the resolution and Councilmember Adam Eirand seconded; the motion passed on a roll call vote of 5 Ayes and 0 Nays.
The law adds Chapter 30 to the Town Code and sets numeric and nuisance-based limits. It makes it unlawful to keep more than a combined total of five cats and dogs over six months on a lot without a permit. Horse and livestock rules set densities and lot-size minimums (horses: one horse per acre with a minimum two-acre lot; goats, sheep, alpaca and similar livestock only on lots of three acres or greater). Up to 12 hens are permitted for personal use; roosters are prohibited in residential zoning except on lawful agricultural operations protected under New York State Agriculture & Markets Law. Chicken coops and manure areas must meet setback rules (no less than 25 feet from side/rear lot lines and no coop or run within 50 feet of an adjacent dwelling) and may be relocated if they cause persistent odor, runoff or infestation.
Enforcement authority rests with the Animal Control Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or other duly authorized town officers. Except where an immediate threat to health or safety is found, notices of violation generally provide seven days to cure. Penalties escalate by offense: first offense fines range $250–$500, second offense within 12 months $500–$1,000, and third/subsequent offenses within 24 months $1,000–$2,500 plus mandatory reduction to lawful numerical limits. The law authorizes injunctive relief and provides inspection and, where authorized by law, seizure or impoundment when imminent risks exist.
The Board adopted the law following multiple prior hearings and public discussion that began in October 2025 and continued through February and March 2026. The local law takes effect upon filing with the New York State Secretary of State.
