Title
Introduce, waive first reading, and set July 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Chapters 8.04 and 8.08 of the Monterey County Code to require spaying and neutering of dogs and cats, while allowing certain exceptions.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors introduce, waive first reading, and set July 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Chapters 8.04 and 8.08 of the Monterey County Code to require spaying and neutering of dogs and cats, while allowing certain exceptions.
SUMMARY:
Board Referral No. 2025.10 was issued by Supervisor Alejo and assigned to the Health Department on August 26, 2025. On June 9, 2026, the Board of Supervisor requested a draft ordinance that mirrors the City of Seaside’s Spay/Neuter ordinance.
DISCUSSION:
On June 9, 2026, the Board requested a draft ordinance that mirrors the spay/neuter ordinance as written for the City of Seaside. The proposed ordinance as been revised accordingly and is included here for the Board’s review with minor revisions to allow for consistency with the existing Monterey County Code.
This ordinance requires spay/neuter of dogs over 6 months and cats over 5 months. It requires the Animal Control Officer to establish and administer a certification program that includes an Unaltered Animal Certificate and a Breeding Permit.
First time violators receive a correction notice and have 60 days to comply. Second violations may result in an administration citation for the violation with a civil penalty of not more than $500. Third or subsequent violations may result in an administration citation for the violation with civil penalties of not more than $750.
Enforcement will include education, correction notices and may include administration citations.
This work supports the County of Monterey Health Department 2025-2028 Strategic Plan Goal(s): Goal 4: Deepen Organizational effectiveness and support long term sustainability.
It also supports the following of the ten essential public health services, specifically:
Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
The Office of County Counsel has reviewed this ordinance and made the minor revisions consistent with the existing Monterey County Code.
FINANCING:
None.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
This ordinance seeks to improve the health of animals in the community tying in the Well-being and Quality of life.
Mark a check next to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Plan Goals:
X Well-Being and Quality of Life
Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
Safe and Resilient Communities
Diverse and Thriving Economy
Prepared by: Cindy Burnham, Animal Services Administrator, 769-8796
Approved by: Elsa Mendoza Jimenez, Director of Health Services, 755-4526
Attachments:
Board Report
Draft Ordinance