§ 93.21. INSPECTIONS.

(A) Any person, group of persons, partnership or corporation is subject to the requirements of §§ 93.18(A) (B), 93.20 or 93.22, shall be subject to the right of inspection by the Humane Officer for a minimum of 1 inspection and a maximum of 4 inspections annually, to determine compliance with this chapter. The inspections may be made in accordance with the provisions of division (C).

(B) Any person, group of persons, partnership or corporation is subject to the requirements of §§ 93.18(C) or 93.19, may be subject to the right of inspection by the Humane Officer for a minimum of 1 inspection annually, to determine compliance with those sections. The inspections may be made in accordance with the provisions of division (C).

(C) Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any duty imposed by this chapter or when there is reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises, any violation of the provisions of this chapter or state law, the Animal Control Officer, Health Officer or police officer is authorized at all reasonable times to inspect the same for compliance with the provisions of this chapter or any state law; provided that:

(1) If the property is occupied, the officer shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry, explaining reasons therefore; and

(2) If the property is unoccupied, the officer shall make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having control of the property and request entry explaining the reasons therefore.

(D) In the event the Animal Control Officer, County Health or police officer has reasonable cause to believe that the keeping or maintaining of an animal is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate inspection to safeguard the animal or the public health or safety, the officer shall first present proper credentials and request entry, explaining the reasons therefore. If entry is refused or cannot be obtained because the owner or other person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after reasonable search, the officer shall have recourse to secure lawful entry and inspection of the property.

(Ord. 12-2006, passed 4-11-2006)