reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-6 - Dealer's duty to maintain records; contents; periodic reports; failure to keep records as grounds for revocation of license; term of preservation

(a)
Every bird dealer shall keep records sufficient to identify:
(1)
Each exotic or pet bird in his possession or sold by him, by species and physical description;
(2)
The name, address, and telephone number of the person from whom each such bird was acquired and, if that person is a licensed bird dealer, then his license number or, if that person is not a licensed dealer, then his driver's license number, social security number, federal tax identification number, or such other identification as may be available;
(3)
The name, address, and telephone number of the person to whom each such bird is transferred and, if that person is a licensed bird dealer, then his license number or, if that person is not a licensed bird dealer, then his driver's license number, social security number, or such other identification as may be available; and
(4)
Any such bird which the dealer knows to be or have been sick or diseased or to have died.
(b)
The department may require periodic reports of any or all of the records required by subsection (a) of this Code section. The department may require the keeping of additional records; and all required records shall be made available for inspection by the department.
(c)
Failure to keep or make available any required records shall be grounds for revocation of a license.
(d)
Every bird dealer shall keep all of such records for at least one year.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-7 - Seizure, quarantine, and destruction of birds

The department may quarantine, seize, and destroy any birds which present a hazard of carrying exotic or untreatable disease, as determined by rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner. The department shall pay an indemnity to the owner of any seized or destroyed birds from any federal funds made available for that purpose or any state funds appropriated for that purpose.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-7.1 - Importing birds detrimental to agriculture; list of birds; restrictions; permits; quarantine; violations

(a)
The Commissioner of Agriculture shall by rule determine and establish a listing of all types of birds not native to this state which if introduced into this state would be capable of breeding in the wild and would, if established in the wild, present a threat of being detrimental to the agricultural industry of this state.
(b)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this Code section, it shall be unlawful to bring into this state any bird identified in the listing of birds established pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section.
(c)
The department may issue a permit to bring into this state a bird identified in the listing of birds established pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section if the person applying for such a permit establishes to the satisfaction of the department that adequate precautions will be taken to ensure that neither the bird for which the permit is issued nor any offspring of such bird will be allowed to escape captivity.
(d)
The department may quarantine, seize, and destroy any bird brought into this state in violation of this Code section.
(e)
Any person convicted of violating the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-7.2 - Importing psittacine or exotic birds deemed potential carriers of disease; list of birds; restrictions; quarantine; violations

(a)
As used in this Code section, the term "psittacine birds" includes birds commonly known as parrots, Amazons, African grays, cockatoos, macaws, parrotlets, beebees, parakeets, lovebirds, lories, lorikeets, and all other birds of the order Psittaciformes.
(b)
It shall be unlawful to bring into this state any psittacine bird or other exotic bird designated by rule by the Commissioner of Agriculture as a potential carrier of disease coming directly or indirectly from outside the United States unless the bird was brought into the United States in conformity with the quarantine regulations of the United States Department of Agriculture.
(c)
The department may quarantine, seize, and destroy any bird brought into this state in violation of this Code section and any bird exposed to a bird brought into the state in violation of this Code section.
(d)
Any person convicted of violating the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-7.3 - Notice and reporting of certain animal diseases

(a)
The Commissioner is authorized to declare certain animal diseases and syndromes to be diseases requiring notice and to require the reporting thereof to the department in a manner and at such times as may be prescribed by the Commissioner. The department shall require that such data be supplied as is deemed necessary and appropriate for the prevention and control of certain diseases and syndromes as are determined by the Commissioner. All such reports and data shall be deemed confidential and shall not be open to inspection by the public; provided, however, that the Commissioner may release such reports and data in statistical form, for valid research purposes, and for other purposes as deemed appropriate by the Commissioner.
(b)
Any person, including, but not limited to, any veterinarian or veterinary diagnostic laboratory and practice personnel and any person associated with any bird dealer regulated by this chapter, submitting reports or data in good faith to the department in compliance with this Code section shall not be liable for any civil damages therefor.
Added by 2002 Ga. Laws 973,§ 2, eff. 5/16/2002.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-8 - Rules and regulations

The Commissioner may make any rules and regulations, not inconsistent with this chapter, governing dealing in or transportation of exotic or pet birds.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-10 - Joint regulation by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Public Health

If the Department of Public Health elects to regulate the sale or transportation of exotic or pet birds under the authority of Code Section
31-12-9
, then the Department of Public Health shall cooperate with the Department of Agriculture in developing and implementing such regulation.
Amended by 2011 Ga. Laws 244,§ 6-3, eff. 7/1/2011.
Amended by 2009 Ga. Laws 102,§ 1-4, eff. 7/1/2009.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-11 - Construction of chapter

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to repeal or preempt any laws or parts of laws administered by the Department of Natural Resources. However, insofar as any authority created by this chapter duplicates any other current or future authorities of the Department of Natural Resources with respect to Class Aves, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Natural Resources shall cooperate in the administration of those duplicated authorities.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 10 - DEALERS IN EXOTIC BIRDS AND PET BIRDS (§§ 4-10-1 — 4-10-12) › Section 4-10-12 - Penalty

Any person who violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Amended by 2002 Ga. Laws 973,§ 3, eff. 5/16/2002.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-1 - Short title

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Georgia Animal Protection Act."
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-4 - Display of licenses

A license must be prominently displayed at each place of business of a pet dealer and at each kennel, stable, and animal shelter in this state.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-5 - Licensing of bird dealers

Any person licensed by the department as a bird dealer shall not be required to obtain a license under this article if such person does not deal in animals other than birds. If, however, a licensed bird dealer sells, offers to sell, exchanges, or offers for adoption dogs, cats, fish, reptiles, or other animals (other than birds) customarily obtained as pets, then such dealer shall be required to obtain a license under this article in addition to his bird dealer's license.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-5.2 - Microchip reader defined; contacting owner of microchipped pet

(a)
As used in this Code section, the term "microchip reader" means a device designed to read microchips at 125 kHz, both encrypted and nonencrypted, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz, and which is ISO 11784 and 11785 compliant.
(b)
When any dog, cat, or other large animal traditionally kept as a household pet is brought to an animal shelter or other facility operated for the collection and care of stray, neglected, or abandoned animals, the operator of the facility shall, if the owner of the animal is not known, within 24 hours or as soon as possible scan for the presence of an identifying microchip through the use of a microchip reader. If a microchip is found, the operator shall make a reasonable effort to contact the owner of the animal. Prior to euthanizing a dog, cat, or other large animal traditionally kept as a household pet, any facility referred to in this subsection shall again scan for the presence of an identifying microchip through the use of a microchip reader.
(c)
Shelters and facilities and their employees and the Department of Agriculture shall not be liable for failing to detect a microchip or failing to contact the owner of the animal. Shelter personnel shall not be required to scan any animal they deem to be too vicious or dangerous to permit safe handling.
Added by 2010 Ga. Laws 556,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-6 - Applicability of article to nonresidents; consent to jurisdiction; service

Any person who is not a resident of this state but who engages in this state in any activities for which a license is required by this article shall be subject to this article as to such activities. Each nonresident applicant for a license required by this article shall be required as a condition of licensure to execute a consent to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state for any action filed under this article; and service of process in any such action shall be by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery by the Commissioner.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-7 - Grounds for refusal to issue or renew or suspension or revocation of licenses

The Commissioner may refuse to issue or renew or may suspend or revoke a license on any one or more of the following grounds:
(1)
Material misstatement in the application for the original license or in the application for any renewal license under this article;
(2)
Willful disregard or violation of this article or of any rules or regulations issued pursuant to this article;
(3)
Willfully aiding or abetting another in the violation of this article or of any regulation or rule issued pursuant to this article;
(4)
Allowing a license issued under this article to be used by an unlicensed person;
(5)
A violation of any law of this state or rule of the Commissioner related to the disposition of, dealing in, or handling of dogs, cats, equines, and other animals;
(6)
Making substantial misrepresentations or false promises in connection with the business of a licensee under this article;
(7)
Pursuing a continued course of making misrepresentations or false promises through advertising, salesmen, agents, or otherwise in connection with the business of a licensee under this article;
(8)
Failure to possess the necessary qualifications or meet the requirements of this article for the issuance or holding of a license; or
(9)
Failure to provide proper facilities.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-8 - Denial, suspension, or revocation of license for violation of article; applicability of "Georgia Administrative Procedure Act."

The Commissioner is authorized to deny, suspend, or revoke any license required by this article, subject to notice and a hearing, in any case in which he finds that there has been a violation of this article or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this article. All proceedings for denial, suspension, or revocation of a license shall be conducted in conformance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the "Georgia Administrative Procedure Act."
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9 - Inspections

The Commissioner or his designated agents are authorized to enter upon any public or private property at any time for the purpose of inspecting the business premises of any pet dealer or any animal shelter, kennel, or stable and the dogs, cats, equines, or other animals housed at such facility to determine if such facility is licensed and for the purpose of enforcing this article and the rules and regulations adopted by the Commissioner pursuant to this article.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9.1 - Quarantine of animal, premises, or any area by Commissioner

(a)
In the control, suppression, prevention, and eradication of animal diseases, the Commissioner or any duly authorized representative acting under his authority is authorized and required to quarantine an animal, premises, or any area when he shall determine that animals in such place or places are infected with a contagious or infectious disease, that the unsanitary condition of such place or places might cause the spread of such disease, that the animal has or has been exposed to any contagious or infectious disease, or that the owner or occupant of such place or places is not observing sanitary practices prescribed under the authority of this article or any other law of this state.
(b)
The Commissioner or his duly authorized representative is authorized to issue and enforce written or printed stop sale, stop use, or stop movement orders to the owners or custodians of any animals, ordering them to hold such animals at a designated place, when the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative finds such animals:
(1)
To be infected with or to have been exposed to any contagious or infectious disease;
(2)
To be held by a person who is required to be licensed under this article and whose license has expired;
(3)
To be held by a person who is required to be licensed under this article and who has failed to obtain a license within ten days of the date on which written notice of need to obtain a license was given to such person by the Commissioner or his authorized representative; or
(4)
To have been held in violation of this article,
until the law has been complied with and such animals have been released, in writing, by the Commissioner or the violations have been otherwise legally disposed of by written authority.
(c)
It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, use, or move any animal in violation of any quarantine or stop sale, stop use, or stop removal order issued under this Code section.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9.2 - Inspections; impoundment of animals; exceptions

(a)
At any time there is probable cause to believe that a violation of this article or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this article has occurred, the Commissioner, his or her designated agent, or an animal control officer who is an employee of state or local government may apply to the appropriate court in the county in which the animal is located for an inspection warrant under the provisions of Code Section
2-2-11
.
(b)
Any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or other peace officer shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this article and Code Sections
16-12-4
and
16-12-37
.
(c)
The Commissioner, his or her designated agent, an animal control officer who is an employee of state or local government, or any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or other peace officer is authorized to impound any animal:
(1)
That has not received humane care;
(2)
That has been subjected to cruelty in violation of Code Section
16-12-4
;
(3)
That is used or intended for use in any violation of Code Section
16-12-37
; or
(4)
If it is determined that any violation of this article has occurred.
(d)
Prior to an animal being impounded pursuant to paragraph (1), (2), or (3) of subsection (c) of this Code section, a licensed accredited veterinarian approved by the Commissioner or a veterinarian employed by a state or federal government and approved by the Commissioner, shall, at the request of the Commissioner, his or her designee, an animal control officer, a sheriff, a deputy sheriff, or other peace officer, examine and determine the condition or treatment of the animal.
(e)
The provisions of this Code section and Code Sections
4-11-9.3
through
4-11-9.6
shall not apply to scientific experiments or investigations conducted by or at an accredited college or university in this state or research facility registered with the Commissioner or the United States Department of Agriculture.
Amended by 2016 Ga. Laws 348,§ 2, eff. 4/26/2016.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9.4 - Notification of owner; custody of animal

(a)
It shall be the duty of any person impounding an animal under this article to notify the owner of such animal immediately upon impoundment. Such notice shall state the name and business address of the person impounding the animal, the name and address of the state or local government agency having custody of the animal, a description of the animal, the reason why the animal was impounded, and a statement of the time limits for the owner to respond and request a hearing as provided in Code Section
4-11-9.5
. The notice shall be provided by personal service or by registered mail, certified mail, or statutory overnight delivery sent to the last known address of the owner. Service of the notice which complies with subsection (b) of Code Section
9-11-5
shall in all cases be sufficient. If the owner of such animal is unknown or cannot be found, service of the notice on the owner shall be made by posting the notice in a conspicuous place at the location where the animal was impounded and by publishing a notice once in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the animal was impounded.
(b)
An animal impounded pursuant to this article is deemed to be in the custody of the state or local government agency responsible for enforcement of this article within said county or municipality.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 370, § 1, eff. 7/1/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9.6 - Disposal of impounded animal

(a)
The government agency having custody of an animal impounded pursuant to this article which is not returned to the owner as provided in Code Sections
4-11-9.3
and
4-11-9.5
, or when ownership of the animal is relinquished by the owner, may dispose of the animal through sale by any commercially feasible means, at a public auction or by sealed bids, adoption, or, if in the opinion of a licensed accredited veterinarian or a veterinarian employed by a state or federal government and approved by the Commissioner such animal has a temperament or condition such that euthanasia is the only reasonable course of action, by humanely disposing of the animal.
(b)
Any proceeds from the sale of such animal shall be used first to pay the costs associated with the impoundment, including, but not limited to, removal of the animal from the premises, shelter and care of the animal, notice, hearing, and disposition of the animal. Any funds remaining shall:
(1)
If the owner is unknown or cannot be found, be paid into the state treasury if the animal was impounded by the Commissioner or his or her designated agent or into the treasury of the local government if the animal was impounded by the sheriff, a deputy sheriff, another law enforcement officer, or an animal control officer; or
(2)
If the owner is known, be paid to the owner.
(c)
The government agency responsible for conducting the sale shall keep a record of all sales, disbursements, and distributions made under this article.
Amended by 2016 Ga. Laws 348,§ 5, eff. 4/26/2016.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-9.7 - Notice and reporting required for certain animal diseases

(a)
The Commissioner is authorized to declare certain animal diseases and syndromes to be diseases requiring notice and to require the reporting thereof to the department in a manner and at such times as may be prescribed by the Commissioner. The department shall require that such data be supplied as is deemed necessary and appropriate for the prevention and control of certain diseases and syndromes as are determined by the Commissioner. All such reports and data shall be deemed confidential and shall not be open to inspection by the public; provided, however, that the Commissioner may release such reports and data in statistical form, for valid research purposes, and for other purposes as deemed appropriate by the Commissioner.
(b)
Any person, including, but not limited to, any veterinarian or veterinary diagnostic laboratory and practice personnel and any person associated with any pet dealer, kennel, animal shelter, or stable, submitting reports or data in good faith to the department in compliance with this Code section shall not be liable for any civil damages therefor.
Added by 2002 Ga. Laws 973,§ 4, eff. 5/16/2002.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-10 - Unlawful acts by licensed persons

It shall be unlawful for any person licensed under this article or any person employed by a person licensed under this article or under such person's supervision or control to:
(1)
Commit a violation of Code Section
16-12-4
, relating to cruelty to animals;
(2)
Fail to keep the pet dealership premises, animal shelter, kennel, or stable in a good state of repair, in a clean and sanitary condition, adequately ventilated, or disinfected when needed;
(3)
Fail to provide humane care for any animal; or
(4)
Fail to take reasonable care to release for sale, trade, or adoption only those animals that appear to be free of disease, injuries, or abnormalities.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-11 - Shipment or importation of equines, poultry, livestock, or birds into state without official certificate of veterinary inspection

(a)
It shall be unlawful for any person to ship or import any equines, poultry, livestock, or birds into this state unless accompanied by an official interstate or international certificate of veterinary inspection.
(b)
In addition to the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section, it shall be unlawful to ship or import into this state any other type of animal which the commissioner has determined poses a significant risk of disease to domestic animals or humans within this state unless such animal is accompanied by such certificate. The commissioner shall maintain on the department website a listing of all other types of animals determined to pose a significant risk of disease in accordance with this subsection.
(c)
No such certificate shall be required for poultry originating from flocks participating in the National Poultry Improvement Plan administered by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Amended by 2015 Ga. Laws 304,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2015.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-12 - Cooperation with federal government

The Commissioner may cooperate with the secretary of agriculture in carrying out Public Law 89-544, commonly known as the Animal Welfare Act, as amended by Public Laws 91-579 and 94-279, and the rules and regulations issued by the secretary of agriculture under that act. The Commissioner may promulgate regulations to facilitate cooperation and avoid any unnecessary duplication or conflict of activities by the department and the secretary of agriculture in regulating the activities or areas covered by this article and Public Law 89-544. The regulations may be in addition to other regulations authorized by this article.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 33,§ 4, eff. 4/24/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-13 - Animals raised, kept, or maintained for human consumption

The provisions of this article shall not apply to any person who raises, keeps, or maintains animals solely for the purposes of human consumption.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-14 - Rules and regulations

The Commissioner is authorized to promulgate and adopt rules and regulations necessary or appropriate to carry out this article.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-15 - Injunctions and restraining orders

In addition to the remedies provided in this article or elsewhere in the laws of this state and notwithstanding the existence of an adequate remedy at law, the Commissioner or, where authorized by the local governing authority, the city or county attorney is authorized to apply to the superior court for an injunction or restraining order. The court shall for good cause shown grant a temporary or permanent injunction or an ex parte or restraining order, restraining or enjoining any person, partnership, firm, corporation, or other entity from violating and continuing to violate this article, any rules and regulations promulgated under this article, Code Section
16-12-4
, or Code Section
16-12-37
. Such injunction or restraining order shall be issued without bond and may be granted notwithstanding the fact that the violation constitutes a criminal act and notwithstanding the pendency of any criminal prosecution for the same violation.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-15.1 - Abandonment of domesticated animal

Notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section
4-11-13
, it shall be unlawful for any person knowingly and intentionally to abandon any domesticated animal upon any public or private property or public right of way. This Code section shall not be construed as amending or otherwise affecting the provisions of Chapter 3 of this title, relating to livestock running at large or straying.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-16 - Penalties

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in Code Section
16-12-4
or
16-12-37
, any person violating any of the provisions of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished as provided in Code Section
17-10-3
; provided, however, that if such offense is committed by a corporation, such corporation shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $1,000.00 for each such violation, community service of not less than 200 hours nor more than 500 hours, or both.
(b)
Each violation of this article shall constitute a separate offense.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-17 - Filing a report regarding animal cruelty; immunity

(a)
Notwithstanding Code Section
24-12-31
or any other provision of law to the contrary, any licensed veterinarian or veterinary technician having reasonable cause to believe that an animal has been subjected to animal cruelty in violation of Code Section
16-12-4
or an act prohibited under Code Section
16-12-37
may make or cause to be made a report of such violation to the Commissioner, his or her designee, an animal control officer, a law enforcement agency, or a prosecuting attorney and may appear and testify in any judicial or administrative proceeding concerning the care of an animal.
(b)
Any person participating in the making of a report pursuant to this Code section or participating in any administrative or judicial proceeding pursuant to this article or Title 16 shall, in so doing, be immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed, provided such participation pursuant to this Code section or any other law is made in good faith.
Amended by 2011 Ga. Laws 52,§; 3, eff. 1/1/2013.
Amended by 2008 Ga. Laws 408,§; 2-4, eff. 5/6/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-18) › Section 4-11-18 - Article cumulative; does not prohibit enactment and enforcement of local ordinances by municipal or county governing authority

This article shall be cumulative and shall not prohibit the enactment and enforcement of local ordinances by a municipal or county governing authority on this subject which are not in conflict with this article; provided, however, that a municipal or county governing authority shall be required to provide timely written notice to the department of any enforcement action taken pursuant to such an ordinance against an operator licensed under this article who is alleged to be in violation of such local ordinance. The department shall be notified of the initiation of any such local enforcement action and of the final conclusions or ultimate outcome of any such action.
Added by 2002 Ga. Laws 981,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2002.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 2 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-30 — 4-11-35) › Section 4-11-30 - Short title

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Georgia Farm Animal, Crop, and Research Facilities Protection Act."
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 286, § 1, eff. 7/1/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 2 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-30 — 4-11-35) › Section 4-11-31 - Definitions

As used in this article, the term:
(1)
"Actor" means a person accused of any of the offenses defined in Code Section
4-11-32
.
(2)
"Animal" means any warm or cold-blooded animal or insect which is being used in food or fiber production, agriculture, research, testing, or education, including, but not limited to, hogs, equines, mules, cattle, sheep, ratites, goats, dogs, rabbits, poultry, fish, and bees. The term "animal" shall not include any animal held primarily as a pet.
(3)
"Animal facility" includes any vehicle, building, structure, pasture, paddock, pond, impoundment, or premises where an animal is kept, handled, housed, exhibited, bred, or offered for sale and any office, building, or structure where records or documents relating to an animal or to animal research, testing, production, or education are maintained.
(4)
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Agriculture.
(5)
"Consent" means assent in fact, whether express or implied, by the owner or by a person legally authorized to act for the owner which is not:
(A)
Induced by force, threat, false pretenses, or fraud;
(B)
Given by a person the actor knows, or should have known, is not legally authorized to act for the owner;
(C)
Given by a person who by reason of youth, mental disease or defect, or intoxication is known, or should have been known, by the actor to be unable to make reasonable decisions; or
(D)
Given solely to detect the commission of an offense.
(5.1)
"Crop" shall mean any crops as defined in Code Section
1-3-3
.
(5.2)
"Crop facility" means any field, building, greenhouse, structure, or premises where crops are grown or offered for sale and any office, building, or structure where records, documents, or electronic data relating to crops or crop research, testing, production, or education are maintained.
(6)
"Deprive" means unlawfully to withhold from the owner, interfere with the possession of, free, or dispose of an animal or other property.
(7)
"Owner" means a person who has title to the property, lawful possession of the property, or a greater right to possession of the property than the actor.
(8)
"Person" means any individual, corporation, association, nonprofit corporation, joint-stock company, firm, trust, partnership, two or more persons having a joint or common interest, or other legal entity.
(9)
"Possession" means actual care, custody, control, or management.
(10)
"Property" means any real or personal property and shall include any document, record, research data, paper, or computer storage medium.
(11)
"State" means the State of Georgia.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 286, § 2, eff. 7/1/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 2 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-30 — 4-11-35) › Section 4-11-33 - Penalty for violation

(a)
A person convicted of any of the offenses defined in subsections (a) and (b) of Code Section
4-11-32
shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000.00 or by imprisonment for a term not to exceed three years, or both.
(b)
Any person violating subsection (c) or (c.1) of Code Section
4-11-32
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 286, § 4, eff. 7/1/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 2 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-30 — 4-11-35) › Section 4-11-34 - Powers and duties of Commissioner

For purposes of enforcing the provisions of this article, the Commissioner:
(1)
May investigate any offense under this article;
(2)
May seek the assistance of any law enforcement agency of the United States, the state, or any local government in the conduct of such investigations; and
(3)
Shall coordinate such investigation, to the maximum extent practicable, with the investigations of any law enforcement agency of the United States, the state, or any local government.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 11 - ANIMAL PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-1 — 4-11-35) › Article 2 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION (§§ 4-11-30 — 4-11-35) › Section 4-11-35 - Attorneys' fees; injunctions; other rights arising out of or relating to violation of article

(a)
Any person who has been damaged by reason of a violation of this article may recover all actual and consequential damages, punitive damages, and court costs, including reasonable attorneys' fees, from the person causing such damage.
(b)
In addition to the remedies provided in this article or elsewhere in the laws of this state and notwithstanding the existence of an adequate remedy at law, any person who has been damaged by reason of a violation of this article is authorized to apply to the superior courts for an injunction or restraining order. Such courts shall have jurisdiction and for good cause shown shall grant a temporary or permanent injunction or a temporary restraining order restraining or enjoining any person from violating or continuing to violate this article. Such injunction or restraining order shall be issued without bond and may be granted notwithstanding the fact that the violation constitutes a criminal act and notwithstanding the pendency of any criminal prosecution for the same violation.
(c)
Nothing in this article shall be construed to limit the exercise of any other rights arising out of or relating to a violation of this article.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 12 - INJURIES FROM EQUINE, LIVESTOCK, OR LLAMA ACTIVITIES (§§ 4-12-1 — 4-12-7) › Section 4-12-1 - Legislative findings

The General Assembly recognizes that persons who participate in equine activities, livestock activities, or llama activities may incur injuries as a result of the risks involved in such activities. The General Assembly also finds that the state and its citizens derive numerous economic and personal benefits from such activities. The General Assembly finds, determines, and declares that this chapter is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety. It is, therefore, the intent of the General Assembly to encourage equine activities, livestock activities, and llama activities by limiting the civil liability of those involved in such activities.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 43,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 12 - INJURIES FROM EQUINE, LIVESTOCK, OR LLAMA ACTIVITIES (§§ 4-12-1 — 4-12-7) › Section 4-12-4 - Warning required; effect of failure to comply with notice requirement

(a)
Every equine professional and every equine activity sponsor shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section. Such signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location on or near stables, corrals, or arenas where the equine professional or the equine activity sponsor conducts equine activities. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by an equine professional or by an equine activity sponsor for the providing of professional services, instruction, or the rental of equipment or tack or an equine to a participant, whether or not the contract involves equine activities on the business location or site of the equine professional or the equine activity sponsor, shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.
(b)
The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall contain language substantially similar to the following warning notice:
WARNING
Under Georgia law, an equine activity sponsor or equine professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of animal activities, pursuant to Chapter 12 of Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.
(c)
Failure to comply with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this Code section shall prevent an equine activity sponsor or equine professional from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by this chapter.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 43,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 12 - INJURIES FROM EQUINE, LIVESTOCK, OR LLAMA ACTIVITIES (§§ 4-12-1 — 4-12-7) › Section 4-12-5 - Warning signs or notices posted by llama activity sponsors or llama professionals

(a)
Every llama professional and every llama activity sponsor shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section. Such signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location on or near stables, corrals, pens, or arenas where the llama professional or the llama activity sponsor conducts llama activities. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by a llama professional or by a llama activity sponsor for the providing of professional services, instruction, or the rental of equipment or tack or a llama to a participant, whether or not the contract involves llama activities on the business location or site of the llama professional or the llama activity sponsor, shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.
(b)
The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall contain language substantially similar to the following warning notice:
WARNING
Under Georgia law, a llama activity sponsor or llama professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in llama activities resulting from the inherent risks of animal activities, pursuant to Chapter 12 of Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.
(c)
Failure to comply with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this Code section shall prevent a llama activity sponsor or llama professional from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by this chapter.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 43,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 12 - INJURIES FROM EQUINE, LIVESTOCK, OR LLAMA ACTIVITIES (§§ 4-12-1 — 4-12-7) › Section 4-12-6 - Warning notices; impact of noncompliance

(a)
Every livestock activity sponsor, livestock professional, and owner of a livestock facility shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section. Such signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location on or near stables, corrals, or arenas where the livestock activity sponsor conducts livestock activities. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by a livestock activity sponsor, livestock professional, or livestock owner for the providing of professional services, instruction, or the rental of equipment, tack, or livestock to a participant, whether or not the contract involves livestock activities on the business location or site of such livestock activity sponsor, livestock professional, or livestock owner, shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.
(b)
The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall contain language substantially similar to the following warning notice:
WARNING
Under Georgia law, a livestock activity sponsor, livestock professional, or owner of a livestock facility is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in livestock activities resulting from the inherent risks of animal activities, pursuant to Chapter 12 of Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.
(c)
Failure to comply with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this Code section shall prevent a livestock activity sponsor, livestock professional, or owner of a livestock facility from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by this chapter.
Added by 2017 Ga. Laws 43,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 12 - INJURIES FROM EQUINE, LIVESTOCK, OR LLAMA ACTIVITIES (§§ 4-12-1 — 4-12-7) › Section 4-12-7 - Construction with other statutory provisions

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed so as to abrogate or otherwise affect the provisions of Chapter 3 of this title.
Added by 2017 Ga. Laws 43,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 13 - HUMANE CARE FOR EQUINES (§§ 4-13-1 — 4-13-10) › Section 4-13-1 - Short title

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Humane Care for Equines Act."
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 13 - HUMANE CARE FOR EQUINES (§§ 4-13-1 — 4-13-10) › Section 4-13-2 - Definitions

As used in this chapter, the term:
(1)
"Adequate food and water" means food and water which is sufficient in amount and appropriate for the particular type of equine to prevent starvation, dehydration, or a significant risk to the equine's health from a lack of food or water.
(2)
"Equine" means any member of the Equidae species, including horses, mules, and asses.
(3)
"Humane care" means, but is not limited to, the provision of adequate food and water consistent with the normal requirements and feeding habits of the equine's size, species, and breed.
(4)
"Owner" means any person owning, having possession or custody of, or in charge of an equine.
(5)
"Person" means any person, firm, corporation, partnership, association, or other legal entity; any public or private institution; the State of Georgia; or any county, municipal corporation, or political subdivision of the state.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 4 - ANIMALS (§§ 4-1-1 — 4-15-1) › Chapter 13 - HUMANE CARE FOR EQUINES (§§ 4-13-1 — 4-13-10) › Section 4-13-3 - Prohibited acts

It shall be unlawful for the owner of any equine:
(1)
To commit a violation of Code Section
16-12-4
, relating to cruelty to animals, which involves an equine owned by, possessed by, or in the custody or control of such person;
(2)
To fail to provide adequate food and water to such equine;
(3)
To fail to provide humane care for such equine;
(4)
To unnecessarily overload, overdrive, torment, or beat any equine or to cause the death of any equine in a cruel or inhumane manner; or
(5)
To interfere with or hinder the Commissioner or his designated agent or any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or other law enforcement officer in carrying out his duties under this chapter.