City Proposes Restrictions on Recreation Involving ‘Exotic’ Pets

The Sedona City Council convened on May 27 to discuss a proposed ordinance prohibiting the public display of “exotic” animals. This first reading aimed to address safety and ethical concerns linked to recent incidents in the community.

Although specific names were not mentioned to avoid constitutional violations, Mayor Scott Jablow alluded to an individual involved in problematic animal displays. John Robert Duff, aged 68, was arrested in November 2023 and later pleaded guilty to three counts of animal abuse. His activities included running an exhibit that resulted in police confiscating 54 snakes, along with other exotic animals.

The proposed ordinance seeks to restrict the display or use of wild or exotic animals unless permission has been granted by the property owner and the exhibitor holds a valid permit from either the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the Arizona Department of Game and Fish. The definition of “display” encompasses any public exhibition or photographic opportunity.

Patrol Cmdr. Chris Dowell from the Sedona Police Department emphasized that the ordinance mirrors regulations from other jurisdictions, citing a rise in animal display cases resulting in felony charges, including incidents where individuals were bitten.

City Attorney Kurt Christianson stated that the community had received prior claims related to such displays, underscoring the necessity for the ordinance. Dowell noted that ethical considerations also motivated the council’s proposal, as displayed animals can pose health risks to the public.

During the meeting, Dowell presented a list of zoonotic diseases and showed a video of a street vendor feeding a snake, questioning whether the council wanted such displays in public spaces. Jablow echoed concerns about the potential hazards of allowing permitted displays.

The council discussed the implications of a broad definition of “display,” especially regarding personal pets in public spaces. Dowell clarified that even casual interactions with animals could fall under the proposed regulations if they attracted a crowd.

Some council members expressed reservations about the extent of the ordinance, particularly concerning private property scenarios. The council agreed that displays on private property should not be regulated as strictly, focusing on public health and safety instead.

No public comments were made regarding the ordinance during the meeting. The next reading is scheduled for June 24, where the council will further evaluate the proposal.