578.011. Animal trespass, penalty
Letting your animal roam without control for too long can get you fined or charged
If someone owns or cares for an animal and doesn’t keep it under control for 12 hours or more, they can be found guilty of animal trespass. Repeat offenses lead to higher penalties.
1. A person commits animal trespass if they own or have custody of an animal and knowingly fail to keep it under adequate control for at least 12 hours.
2. Penalties for animal trespass:
- First offense: An infraction with a fine up to $200;
- Second and later offenses: Class C misdemeanor with possible jail time, a fine up to $500, or both.
The court may waive the fine for a first offense if the person shows they’ve taken steps to permanently fix the problem. However, the person must still pay for the cost of caring for the animal during the violation.
This law does not apply to cases covered under section 578.007 or Missouri livestock fencing and trespass laws (sections 272.010 to 272.370).
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