Section 7.02.025 Maximum number of domestic animals.

    1. No owner or caretaker of any residential unit shall knowingly allow more than two (2) domestic animals of the same species or no more than three (3) domestic animals in total of any species over the age of three (3) months to be kept within the city limits.  
    2. The number of domestic animals permitted in subsection 1 may be increased by obtaining a permit issued by the city manager or the city manager's designee. Such permit shall specify any restrictions, limitations, conditions or prohibitions including the applicant's consent to a voluntary initial inspection and periodic inspections during the term of the permit which the city manager or his designee deems reasonably necessary to protect any person or neighboring use from unsanitary conditions, unreasonable noise or odors, or annoyance, or to protect the public health or safety. Such a permit may be modified from time to time or revoked by the city manager or his designee for failure to conform to such restrictions, limitations, conditions or prohibitions outlined by the community development director or his/her designee.  The permit may be revoked at any time for violation of state or local laws and regulations.   Such modification or revocation shall be effective from and after ten (10) days following the mailing of written notice thereof by certified mail to the person or persons keeping or maintaining such animals.  At no time will a permit be issued for a residence with more than two (2) unspayed or un-neutered of the same species, unless a commercial kennel license is obtained in accordance with State of Iowa statutes and/or municipal codes.
    3. All permits issued hereunder shall be effective for the specific property and person listed on said permit and shall be in full effect for two years or until surrendered or revoked. At the end of the two year period, the permit must be reapplied for.  An initial fee for such permit shall be ten dollars ($10.00).  The fee shall be paid at the time of the application or application renewal.  The city will conduct an initial inspection, and at its discretion, periodically inspect the premises to determine continued allowance of the permit.  The owner or caretaker shall display or have readily available the permit allowing for the extra animals.
    4.  Any applicant who is denied a permit may request a hearing before the city manager or his designee by filing a written appeal with the city clerk within ten days of the denial.  The appeal shall be heard by the city manager or his designee within 15 days of the date of the notice of the appeal.  The applicant may be represented by counsel and may be allowed to submit a written statement in his/her defense prior to the hearing as well as present evidence at the hearing. (Ord. 2007-0100, 2006-0676)