Elk Point council has approved a new animal control bylaw after months of review, public notice and revisions aimed at strengthening public safety and clarifying what animals are allowed within town limits.

Council passed third and final reading of the bylaw during its March 9 meeting.

The bylaw was first introduced in November and went through advertising and a public hearing before returning to council with additional changes based on feedback from councillors and the public.

Councillor Jason Boorse said the revisions improved the final version.

“I do appreciate the work of the administration and adding all our comments and I feel better with how this is presented for this bylaw personally,” he said.

Dangerous dog rules strengthened

One of the most notable changes focuses on how serious dog attacks are handled.

Administration told council the bylaw now includes a bite scale, which has been repositioned to guide decisions on dangerous dogs and potential euthanization.

“So a severe enough injury and it scaled then there’s no second chances,” council heard during the discussion.

Previously, the bylaw required multiple incidents before stronger action could be taken. Under the updated version, a dog that causes death or severe injury could be ordered euthanized without waiting for a second incident.

Administration said the change reflects concerns raised during earlier discussions and public feedback about the need for stronger protection in serious cases.

“I think that’s what they were looking for and the public was looking for as well,” council heard.

Bees and urban hens included

The updated bylaw also introduces language addressing beekeeping and urban hens, which were not clearly defined in the previous version.

Administration said examples from other municipalities were reviewed while drafting those sections to ensure the rules align with how other communities regulate similar activities.

The goal is to provide clearer definitions so residents understand what is permitted and what requires approval.

Enforcement wording clarified

Council also briefly discussed wording in the section on prohibited animals, particularly regarding references to a peace officer granting permission in certain cases.

Administration clarified that enforcement authority could still be delegated appropriately within the town if needed.

Following the discussion, council voted to give the bylaw its third and final reading.