Monterey County Municipal Code Ch. 8.48 Administration and Enforcement

There is established the position of Chief Animal Control Officer for Monterey County and the Monterey County Health Officer is designated ex-officio Chief Animal Control Officer.

(Ord. 3629, 1992)

A. The Chief Animal Control Officer shall perform such duties as are imposed by law upon a County poundmaster or poundkeeper.

B. The Chief Animal Control Officer, and such of his or her duly appointed assistants, deputies and employees ("officers") as he or she designates in writing shall, and any peace officer, may have the duty to enforce this Title and shall have the power to arrest persons in violation thereof, as provided in Sections 836, 836.5, and 853.5 of the California Penal Code, except that such employees shall not have the authority to enforce the provisions of Chapter 8.40 of this Title pertaining to livestock and Chapter 8.42 of this Title pertaining to wildlife.

C. The officers, in the course of the scope of their employment, use a gaseous animal repellent. Such officers must have "on the job training" (O.J.T.), approved by the Monterey County Health Officer in the use of gas and animal repellent. The type of repellent must be approved by the California Department of Justice and used solely for self defense. Such possession and use must be in strict conformance with the laws and regulations of the State of California.

(Ord. 3629, 1992)

A. It is unlawful for any person to interfere or in any way attempt to interfere with the Animal Control Officer or the Sheriff in the performance of any duty required under this Title or otherwise authorized pursuant to this Code or the rules and regulations of the Animal Control Officer.

B. It is unlawful for any person to take or attempt to take any dog or other animal seized pursuant to the provisions of this Title from the Animal Control Officer or the Sheriff without the authorization of the Animal Control Officer or Sheriff. It is also unlawful for any person to remove or attempt to remove any dog or other animal from any pound or County Animal Shelter without having first redeemed such animal in the manner provided in this Title.

(Ord. 3629, 1992)