Chattanooga, TN Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Rescue Permits (2026)

Chattanooga City Code § 7-460 defines an Animal Rescuer as any nonprofit person accepting more than ten animals a year, or more than five animals plus two unweaned litters, to find them permanent adoptive homes; Chapter 7's broad definition of 'animal' is not limited to pets, so wildlife rescues meeting that volume threshold qualify too. Section 7-461 requires a separate Permit for each location where animals are accepted, kept or maintained, available for viewing on request. There is no permit fee under § 7-462, but § 7-463 requires adequate care, spay/neuter before adoption, an isolation area for sick animals, and three years of records.