All individuals riding horses within the city limits shall first obtain a license from the office of the City Clerk. Licensing will be subject to the following rules and conditions:

(a)   The license will be issued on an annual basis at no charge. Applicants must demonstrate an understanding of the law and acceptance of the rules & regulations. The license process will include acknowledgement by the applicant of the receipt of rules & regulations, as well as Ordinance 883 (Animal Control); with applicant confirming that he or she has read and understands both documents. Horses are considered domestic animals and are subject to the control and protection of animals as defined in Ordinance 883.

(b)   Licensees must maintain direct control of the horse either by controlled headstall, bridal, or reins, which is securely fastened in a manner, which is sufficient to keep the animal under control. Picketing any horse on any street, sidewalk or other public place within the corporate limits of the city; with the exception of fairs, parades, and other official events is not allowed. Single, licensed riders only shall be permitted, hereby defined as one (1) rider to one (1) horse.

(c)   Riding will be permitted from dawn to dusk only. No riding shall be permitted after dark.

(d)   Horses must be walked while riding on public streets. No running, galloping, or trotting on public streets, alleys, or thoroughfares. Breaking or training any horse on any street, sidewalk, or other public place within the corporate limits of the city is not allowed.

(e)   Licensees must observe proper traffic rules. Licensees must be defensive and prepared for all pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Licensees must yield to all other types of traffic so as not to impede safe pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Riding on the established truck route(s) is not allowed; except for the preceding thirty (30) day period immediately preceding a parade event in which the horses will be participating. This exception is valid for the purpose of acclimating the horses to the parade route only.

(f)   Riding at the City Park shall be confined to the track only. Riding on the football field, baseball field, or in the playground area is strictly forbidden.

(g)   Licensees wishing to access the Park must do so only at authorized Park entrances on Locust Street and Peabody Street.

(h)   Licensees are responsible for the removal of excrement deposited by their horse immediately after the ride is completed that day. Licensees may be held liable for any personal or property damage caused by their horse.

(Ord. 11-2005; Code 2016)

Violation of any of the provisions of this article shall constitute a misdemeanor and any person, firm or corporation, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined in any sum not exceeding THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($300.00), and each day of the violation shall be considered as a separate offense.

(Ord. 11-2005; Code 2016)