Alligator discovery prompts change of city exotic pet rules – Midland Daily News

During a council meeting Monday, City Attorney Jim Branson introduced an ordinance amendment that would include the prohibition of exotic animals in its farm animal ordinance. The discovery of the alligator was made two months ago, Branson said.
The discovery of “large” pet alligator in a rental unit prompted the city officials to clarify Midland’s exotic pet laws.
During a council meeting Monday, City Attorney Jim Branson introduced an ordinance amendment that would include the prohibition of exotic animals in its farm animal ordinance.  
The discovery of the alligator was made two months ago, Branson said. The reptile was found inside a rental unit near the corner of Eastman Avenue and North Saginaw Road.
When looking over this case, Branson said the law needed to be clearer and given proper enforcement tools. The ordinance was put in place in 2002 and while it defines exotic animals, neither the code of ordinances or the zoning ordinance addresses the prohibition or enforcement of exotic animals.
These changes includes adding the prohibition in plain language to the ordinance and creating fines. Branson said if someone is found in violation of this ordinance, the first instance would be at $50, the second offense is $250, and the third and subsequent offenses would be $500 each.
“We are adding that to the prohibition language to allow enforcement as well as prohibition within the city of Midland,” Branson said. 
Under the ordinance, prohibited animals includes kangaroos, venomous reptiles, ostriches, bears, non-human primates, alligators and all non-domesticated felines and canines. The full list can be found within the ordinance.
Council approved the first reading of the amendment in a 5-0 vote. If council approves the amendment in a second reading, the amendment would be officially adopted by the city.
 
Andrew Mullin is a reporter for the Midland Daily News.

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