JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Jacksonville Beach city leaders are considering an ordinance that would allow the city to deny, suspend or revoke dog park memberships for people investigated for or convicted of animal cruelty.
Ordinance No. 2026-8239, introduced by City Attorney David Migut, would amend Chapter 20, Section 20-15 of the city’s Code of Ordinances — the section that governs Paws Dog Park — to add new language specifically targeting animal cruelty offenders.
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How it started
The proposal came after an incident at an Atlantic Beach dog park was brought to the Jacksonville Beach City Council’s attention during an April council briefing.
Council Member Sandy Golding raised the issue after learning that an alleged animal cruelty offender’s membership at the Atlantic Beach park had been revoked. She then reviewed Jacksonville Beach’s own Code of Ordinances and found there was no provision allowing the city to do the same at Paws Dog Park.
The council reached a consensus directing Migut to draft updated language for the code.
What the ordinance would do
Under the proposed ordinance, the city manager — or a designee — would have the authority to immediately deny, suspend or revoke a person’s membership and park access if that person has been convicted of an animal cruelty offense or is being investigated for one.
The ordinance defines “animal cruelty offense” as any violation of Chapter 828 of Florida Statutes, or any substantially similar offense under the laws of another state or the United States federal government.
The ordinance also outlines a reinstatement process. Anyone whose membership is suspended or revoked could apply in writing to the city manager for reinstatement. If approved, reinstatement would require proof that the person completed an animal cruelty prevention and education course.
Consequences for violations
The proposed ordinance includes an enforcement provision. Any person who enters or remains at Paws Dog Park after their membership or access has been denied, suspended or revoked could be removed and may face arrest or prosecution for criminal trespass.
The Jacksonville Beach City Council is scheduled to hold a first reading of the ordinance on Aug. 3, with a second reading set for Aug. 17. The ordinance would take effect immediately upon adoption.