Westlake Prohibits Moose, Giraffes and Elk: 5 Laws

Ever wonder what the laws in Westlake are regarding animals? 

We found five city ordinances you might be unaware of including the prohibition of owning elephants and gavials. (Yes, we had to google “gavials.” They are pretty much fish eating alligators, and they are a no-no in Westlake.) 

A person violating these ordinances can be charged with a misdemeanor by Westlake Police on the first offense. 

• 505.12 No Coloring Rabbits...or Baby Chicks

Dyeing or otherwise coloring any rabbit or baby poultry, including chicks and ducklings is prohibited. Dyed rabbits and poultry cannot be sold, raffled or given away. Also, no poultry younger than four weeks of age may be sold or distributed in lots of less than six.  (The ordinance also says if you’re a store selling “young poultry,” you better keep them warm, watered and fed.)

• 505.20 Certain Animals Prohibited: That includes Moose and Giraffes 

• 505.15 Horses at large 

•  505.13 Report of Escape of Exotic or Dangerous Animal

If your animal not indigenous to Ohio, or one that is dangerous to others escapes, you must notify authorities within one hour. (505.20 prohibits these animals anyway, but seriously, if your illegally harbored jaguar gets loose, please let someone know.) 

• 505.18(b) Free range chickens!

You can’t keep any chickens or domestic farm animals on a lot within the city unless you have a minimum lot area of two acres.