Chapter 1General Provisions
Section § 30501
This law allows the leadership of any county or city in California to adopt certain sections related to animal control and management. If these sections are adopted, they apply within that area but the county isn't required to enforce them in cities situated within its borders.
Additionally, when terms like “board of supervisors,” “county,” “county clerk,” or “animal control officer” are mentioned, they also refer to the equivalent city authorities.
Section § 30502
This section explains that any dog license tag issued by a city or county in California counts as meeting state requirements if it follows a few key rules. First, it needs to mostly follow state laws about dogs. Second, the tag must be worn on the dog's collar. Third, there should be a record that identifies who owns or is responsible for the dog.
Section § 30503
This law mandates that animal shelters and rescue groups in California cannot sell or give away dogs that haven't been spayed or neutered, except under certain conditions. If a veterinarian confirms a dog cannot be spayed or neutered due to health issues, the adopter must pay a deposit between $40 and $75 to the shelter or rescue group. This deposit is refunded once the adopter provides proof of the operation within 30 business days after the dog is healthy enough for surgery. Instead of requiring deposits, shelters and rescue groups can partner with veterinarians to ensure dogs are spayed or neutered. Any unclaimed deposit funds must be used for spaying and neutering programs. This rule only applies to counties with populations over 100,000 and their cities.
Section § 30503.5
This law section is about the responsibilities of animal shelters and rescue groups regarding dogs with a known bite history. If a dog that is at least four months old has bitten someone and broken the skin, requiring a specific quarantine, the shelter or group must inform anyone taking the dog of this history. They have to provide the bite information in writing and get a signed acknowledgment from the new owner or recipient. The purpose is to ensure public safety and proper dog placement, though it doesn't automatically mean the dog can't be adopted. If these rules aren't followed, a fine of up to $500 may be levied against the offending shelter or group, and fines are distributed to local animal control or the city's funds depending on who violated the law.
Section § 30504
This law states that every puppy in a litter, whether it's eating solid food or still nursing, is considered an individual animal.
Section § 30505
If you're a veteran with a driver's license or ID card that says 'VETERAN,' you can adopt a dog from a public animal shelter without paying an adoption fee. However, the shelter might limit you to adopting one dog every six months.