New animal control ordinance takes effect in Warren County

WARREN COUNTY, Ky. — A new animal control ordinance is taking effect in Warren County, establishing rules for pet owners and addressing animal-related nuisances in areas outside Bowling Green city limits.

Warren County Animal Control officials Audree French and Jessica Bratcher said the ordinance is intended to improve public safety and address complaints involving animals.

Under the new rules, dogs must remain on their owners’ property. Owners must follow applicable restraint requirements when taking their dogs off their property.

The ordinance addresses nuisance behaviors, including animals chasing or threatening pedestrians and cyclists, attacking other animals, trespassing on others’ property, causing property damage, creating unsanitary conditions and making excessive noise that disturbs neighbors.

French and Bratcher said enforcement will be complaint-driven, with an emphasis on helping residents understand and comply with the requirements.

“We’re just trying to get everybody to feel safe on their own property, be able to walk in the neighborhood without getting attacked by a dog,” Bratcher said.

The ordinance comes as Warren County continues to grow, with more subdivisions and residential areas developing outside Bowling Green city limits.

Assistant Warren County Attorney Sarah Bessinger previously said the county had not had a countywide animal control ordinance.

“The city of Bowling Green has had one for years and years,” Bessinger said, explaining that the county needed to address animal-related concerns as residential development expanded beyond city limits.

Sixth District Magistrate Ron Cummings said the ordinance could have a lasting impact on the community.

“This is a chance now for citizens of Warren County to have a safe … way to live and not be interfered with by nuisance animals,” Cummings said.

Residents with questions about the ordinance can contact the Warren County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Section for information about the requirements and enforcement.