Utah Code 4-2-903. Animal care violations
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(1) “Animal care facility” means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-9-301.9 .
Terms Used In Utah Code 4-2-903
- Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
- Department: means the Department of Agriculture and Food created in Chapter 2, Administration. See Utah Code 4-1-109
- Injunction: An order of the court prohibiting (or compelling) the performance of a specific act to prevent irreparable damage or injury.
- Person: means a natural person or individual, corporation, organization, or other legal entity. See Utah Code 4-1-109
- Temporary restraining order: Prohibits a person from an action that is likely to cause irreparable harm. This differs from an injunction in that it may be granted immediately, without notice to the opposing party, and without a hearing. It is intended to last only until a hearing can be held.
(2) The department may, in accordance with this section and as resources allow, respond to a complaint that an animal care facility has violated Subsection 76-9-301 (2)(a) or Section 76-9-301.9 .
(3) If the department determines that a person has violated Subsection 76-9-301 (2)(a) or Section 76-9-301.9 , the department may:
(3)(a) impose a civil fine of up to $500 per violation;
(3)(b) seek a temporary restraining order;
(3)(c) seek an injunction;
(3)(d) seek an order of seizure or condemnation for an animal that is the subject of the violation, if the department has identified a suitable animal care facility that accepts custody of the animal; or
(3)(e) report the circumstances to law enforcement or a prosecutor.
(4) An action by the department under Subsection (3) may precede and does not preclude a criminal penalty or criminal prosecution under Section 76-9-301 or 76-9-301.9 .
(5) The department shall deposit a fine imposed under Subsection (3) into the General Fund as a dedicated credit to be used by the department for enforcement of this section.