Code Enforcement Corner
Reminders from the Code Enforcement Specialist
Rules for walking our Four-Legged Friends.
The Town has worked hard to provide our residents with a Rails and Trails pathway for their use and enjoyment. These and our other pathways and parks are enjoyed by many to include our beloved dogs.
It is important to know that walking your dogs in our public spaces comes with the responsibility of assuring the dog is always under your control.
The Town of Mount Airy has adopted the Carroll and Frederick County Animal Control regulations for the Town. Which County the public spaces are located will determine which rules apply. The Town also by agreement uses the Animal Control Officers from the appropriate county to address all animal-related concerns, including dogs.
Both Carroll and Frederick County require that when dogs are in public areas they must be leashed or under the owners “effective control at all times”. Effective control requires but is not limited to the dog immediately responding to commands and not approaching others aggressively or otherwise. It is not enough to say the dog is friendly. If the dog approaches others or jumps on them, it is not under effective control. Owners’ failure to have a dog leashed or under effective control can result in fines up to $500.00 dollars. We encourage residents who encounter off-leash or uncontrolled dogs to report the incident to the appropriate Animal Control Agency. Cell Phone pictures can be helpful in identifying the dogs and their owners.
The contacts numbers are:
Frederick County Animal Control 301-600-1546
Carroll County Animal Control 410-848-4810
We must all work together to ensure our Public Spaces remain attractive spaces for residents and guests to use free from the worry of encountering aggressive or uncontrolled dogs.
Voluntary compliance is our goal, and your cooperation is essential.