Pennsylvania's animal cruelty statutes apply universally to hoarding situations, treating neglect of multiple animals as a graded offense up to felony.
Pennsylvania's animal cruelty law (18 Pa.C.S. Sec. 5532-5536, Libre's Law of 2017) defines neglect, cruelty, and aggravated cruelty applying statewide. Hoarding cases typically involve charges of neglect (Sec. 5532) when owners fail to provide necessary sustenance, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Aggravated cruelty (Sec. 5534) is a third-degree felony. Courts can order forfeiture of all animals, ban future ownership, and require psychological evaluation. The statewide framework preempts inconsistent local rules though municipalities may add humane officer enforcement.
Neglect is a summary offense; cruelty is a second-degree misdemeanor; aggravated cruelty is a third-degree felony with up to 7 years prison and $15,000 fines.
Pottstown, PA
Pottstown's Noise Control Ordinance exempts emergency work and Borough/school/athletic activities. Construction noise must not create a nuisance or annoy a r...
Pottstown, PA
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Pottstown, PA
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Pottstown, PA
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Pottstown, PA
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Pottstown, PA
No Pottstown-specific RV parking ordinance identified beyond PA Motor Vehicle Code and Chapter 27 (Zoning) general standards. Check Chapter 27 or contact Pot...
See how Pottstown's animal hoarding rules stack up against other locations.
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