Animals

The Covenants and Rules and Regulations of the Highland Lakes Property Owners Association govern the keeping of livestock and poultry, as follows:

No animals, livestock or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any lot, except that dogs, cats or other household pets may be kept, provided that they are not kept, bred or maintained for any commercial purposes. (There are some exceptions for keeping of horses.)

We have received several complaints recently about dogs running loose and uncontrolled barking of such animals, both during the day and at night, for extended periods of time.

The Teller County commissioners adopted Ordinance No. 4 on July 12, 1990, regulating the control of dogs in all areas of Teller County. Some of the pertinent points covered by this Ordinance are the following:

1. The dog(s) must be vaccinated for rabies and be registered with Teller County. The dog(s) must wear a collar or harness with the license attached at all times. Dogs running at large off their masters premises and unattended will be a violation of the Dog Control Ordinance.

2. Excessive barking of dogs can result in a signed complaint by one or more of your neighbors since this constitutes a public nuisance.

3. If the owner of a dog is found guilty of violation of any provision of the Teller County Dog Control Ordinance, a fine of not less than $25 will be imposed. For a second violation, the owner will be fined not less than $50. For third and subsequent violations, the owner will be fined not less than $100. Further violations, at the discretion of the Court, will result in stiffer penalties upon conviction by a fine of not more than $300. The Court may also order destruction of dog when its owner has been convicted of three or more violations of any section of the Ordinance within a one-year period.

In the interests of public health, safety and welfare of all the children and residents of Teller County, we believe the rules and regulations covering dog and animal control should be strictly observed. The telephone number for the Teller County Animal Control Office is 687-0660. If you wish further information, please contact that office.

Very truly yours,

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rev. 9/27/01