Board Policy - Section Number: 03.04.08.00

Purpose

To establish a schedule of fees charged by Hillsborough County for certain services provided by the Department of Animal Services (Department) and, where not in conflict with state law, fees and costs may be adjusted, deferred, or waived at the discretion of the County Administrator or his or her designee.

Policy

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is authorized to fix fees and charges for certain services provided by the Department involving animals within Hillsborough County, including fees pursuant to Animal Ordinance 00-26 as amended by Ordinance 03-8 within the parameters described below. Pursuant to BOCC Policy 03.02.02.09, USER FEE AND COST RECOVERY, it is the policy of the BOCC that the County may from time to time establish or update fees for services provided by the Department. The BOCC identified a cost recovery goal of 41 percent for the Department.

The County shall allow veterinarians, or other organizations authorized by the Department to sell Pet Registrations (rabies tags), for an administrative fee.

In addition, the BOCC hereby authorizes the County Administrator, or his or her designee, on a case by case basis, to waive in full or in part, fees or costs established by BOCC Policy 03.04.08.00 for certain services provided by the Department, in the following circumstances:

1. Upon a showing of financial hardship by the animal owner and where the County Administrator, or his or her designee, determines such waiver would be in the best interest of the animal;
2. Where the County Administrator, or his or her designee, determines it could help save the life of the animal;
3. Where the County Administrator, or his or her designee, determines it would maintain the human- animal bond between the owner and animal; or
4. Where the County Administrator, or his or her designee, otherwise determines such waiver of fees or costs would be in the best interest of the County or animal.

The BOCC hereby authorizes the County Administrator, or his or her designee, on a case by case basis, to waive, in full or in part, fees or costs established by BOCC Policy 03.04.08.00 for certain services provided by the Department, in the following circumstances:

1. Pet Adoption Fees if it is believed it will encourage pet adoptions and reduce the risk the animal(s) will be humanely euthanized.
2. Rabies Registration Fees if it is believed it will increase the likelihood, the pet owner(s) will continue to vaccinate and register the pet(s) in the future.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the Department, under the direction of the County Administrator, to recommend a fee schedule to the BOCC for approval and adoption. Rabies tag and licensure fee changes shall require a public hearing which has been advertised in a newspaper of general circulation in Hillsborough County, Florida. Fees and charges are to be periodically reviewed and recommended changes presented to the BOCC for consideration.