The City Council of Dénia has approved the modification of the Municipal Ordinance on animal ownership and welfare, with the aim of adapting it to the current state and regional regulations, as well as to the social changes in the perception of the relationship between people and animals. Main points and most important provisions:
Objectives and scope of application
- To guarantee protection and respect for animals as living beings with sensitivity.
- Encourage responsible ownership by owners and possessors.
- To regulate the coexistence between people and animals in the municipality, taking into account public health, civility and good coexistence.
- It applies throughout the municipality of Dénia, both to residents and visitors who stay for a long period of time.
Duties and obligations of owners/possessors
- Identification and registration:
– All dogs must be registered in the municipal census.
– Registration must be done within 30 days after identification with microchip.
– The obligation also extends to visitors residing in Dénia for more than 3 months.
- Hygiene and cleanliness:
– It is mandatory to carry a bottle of water to clean the urine of animals on the public road.
– Any deposition must always be collected.
- Health and veterinary control:
– Cats, dogs and even ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies and have an updated health card.
Notable prohibitions
- Feeding animals on public streets: feeding animals on the street is prohibited, with established economic sanctions.
- Unrestrained animals: leaving animals at large or unsupervised may result in severe penalties.
- Access to beaches during the bathing season: between June 1 and October 31, dogs are not allowed on the beaches (according to the beach ordinance).
Penalty regime
- Minor infractions: fines from 100 to 750 €, for example, for not carrying water to clean urine or not vaccinating.
- Serious or very serious infractions: failure to pick up droppings can result in fines of up to €3,000; leaving the animal unchecked can result in fines of up to €10,000 in extreme cases.
Other regulated aspects
- Control and registration of cat colonies in charge of the City Council.
- Rules for the use of dog parks.
- Regulation of activities of breeders and animal associations within the municipality.