Warren County considers first animal control ordinance

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Warren County could soon implement its first countywide animal control ordinance as leaders look to address growth and development outside city limits.

At a recent fiscal court meeting, county attorneys presented a proposal that would establish clear guidelines for handling pets and other animals in unincorporated areas of the county.

Assistant Warren County attorney Sarah Bessinger said the county has never had its own animal control ordinance, even as neighborhoods and subdivisions continue expanding beyond the Bowling Green city limits.

“The City of Bowling Green has had one for years and years,” Bessinger said. “Now that there are subdivisions and more urban areas within the county limits, it’s time to make sure the amount of enforcement you would get in a subdivision within the city limits is the same in the county limits.”

If adopted, the ordinance would ban retail and roadside animal sales and establish humane standards and regular inspections for breeders and boarding facilities.

Currently, animal control in the county is handled by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Bowling Green-Warren County Humane Society. State law already requires pets to be properly fed, sheltered and cared for.

Under the proposed ordinance, enforcement would largely be complaint-driven and handled by county code enforcement. That means cases, such as dog bites or leash violations in subdivisions, would trigger investigations. Fines would increase for repeat violations.

Bessinger said the ordinance is designed to be “farm friendly” and focused on common-sense regulations rather than overregulation.

“We’re looking to make common sense regulations,” she said. “Nothing that is going to inhibit people from having a pet. It’s just some regulations to make sure that you’re a good pet owner.”

County leaders said they reviewed ordinances from similarly sized counties — including Campbell, Daviess, Hardin and Jefferson counties — and incorporated elements that best fit Warren County’s needs.

A first reading of the ordinance is expected March 12, with a second reading tentatively scheduled for March 26. If approved, the measure could take effect as early as April 1, pending final action by Fiscal Court.

Supporters say the move is intended to prevent issues in growing subdivisions and ensure responsible pet ownership keeps pace with the county’s continued expansion.