Public hearing set for new Animal Control ordinance
Lee County will hold a public hearing next month as it looks to replace its current Animal Control Ordinance.
The Lee County Board of County Commissioners will conduct the hearing at its regular meeting set for Dec. 2 at 9:30 a.m.
The vote to set that hearing date took place Tuesday.
According to county officials, the proposed ordinance repeals and replaces the existing ordinance and provides comprehensive changes to rules related to Animal Control and Services, including adding a mandatory one-day hold for cats, ferrets and other small mammals lacking identification.
County officials stated that the one-day hold was implemented operationally in June 2025 and remains in effect. The ordinance change would codify the operational change.
Amending any Lee County Ordinance involves a structured procedure, including public hearings and review by public advisory committees.
Among the changes to the ordinance are:
• Adds the ability for law enforcement officers to take custody of an animal. Provides clearer basis to take custody after arrest, other law enforcement actions or medical emergencies.
• Allows an animal to not have to wear a tag if microchipped with required information.
• Prohibits selling animals on the roadside or in parking lots without a permit and establishes the process for obtaining a permit.
• Makes other changes to definitions and requirements.
Cape Coral Animal Shelter Executive Director Liz McCauley said she’s pleased with the changes proposed.
“It’s definitely a positive thing for our community,” she said. “I think this change is good. I think Lee County is looking at ways to make things better. They have some issues, and it’s not an easy job. They’re taking a look at things and trying to make it better.”
McCauley added that breeding remains one of the largest issue when it comes to pet overpopulation.
“We are particularly interested in any ordinance that addresses the uncontrolled breeding happening in our community,” she said. “Too often, pet owners fail to spay or neuter their animals, leading to ‘accidental litters,’ or they intentionally breed them, particularly puppies, hoping to make a profit-only to find themselves unable to sell them. These unwanted animals are then surrendered to shelters, placing an enormous strain on our already limited resources. We’re grateful to see LCDAS taking proactive steps to make a difference for the animals and people in our community.”
County officials add that in the very near future, the county will present details about another community engagement tool so that residents can “self-help” with stray animals.
“The soon-to-be published website portal will allow Lee County residents using computers or cell phones to post photos of found strays in hopes that owners seeking their lost pets can connect – even before a stray is brought to Animal Services,” officials said in a release. “Think of it as neighbors helping neighbors, similar to some popular neighborhood apps that communities use today. One of the language changes in the ordinance facilitates adding this portal and service.”
A second hearing of the ordinance will be scheduled after the Dec. 2 hearing.
Lee County Domestic Animal Services serves as the county’s only stray intake facility, providing care, shelter and second chances for thousands of animals each year. With community support, more pets can find their way to loving homes, officials said.
Adoptions take place at the shelter, 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers. Adoption hours are 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Adoption applications can be submitted electronically at leegov.com. They can also be printed and faxed or brought to the shelter or they can be completed in person.
Every adoption includes a complete package valued at more than $600, which features: spay or neuter surgery, up-to-date vaccinations, county license and rabies vaccination, microchip with registration, and a 10-day health guarantee.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com