Animal Hoarding: Fargo vs Horace
How do animal hoarding rules compare between Fargo, ND and Horace, ND?
Fargo and Horace have similar restriction levels.
Fargo, ND
Cass County
Fargo Chapter 4 and North Dakota Century Code chapter 36-21.1 give Fargo Animal Services and Fargo Police authority to intervene in animal hoarding cases involving inadequate care, sanitation failures, or large numbers of suffering pets.
View full Fargo rules →Horace, ND
Cass County
North Dakota's animal cruelty law under NDCC Chapter 36-21.2 criminalizes overt acts of cruelty and neglect, which courts apply to animal hoarding cases. The statute provides minimum statewide protections that municipalities can supplement but not weaken.
View full Horace rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fargo | Horace |
|---|---|---|
| City code | Fargo Ch. 4 | - |
| State statute | NDCC 36-21.1 | - |
| Lead agency | Fargo Animal Services | - |
| Mental health | FCPH referral | - |
| Statute | - | NDCC Chapter 36-21.2 |
| Cruelty Penalty | - | Class C felony |
| Neglect Penalty | - | Class B misdemeanor |
| Animal Seizure | - | By court order |
| Owner Ban | - | Possible post-conviction |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fargo FAQ
How do I report a suspected hoarding situation?
Call Fargo Police non-emergency or Fargo Animal Services. Provide address, observed conditions, and number of animals. Reports can be anonymous.
Can hoarders get their pets back?
Courts often restrict or ban future ownership. Reclaim of seized animals is rare and typically conditioned on facility inspections and ongoing FCPH oversight.
Horace FAQ
How many animals trigger hoarding charges in North Dakota?
There is no specific number. Charges depend on whether the owner provides adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care for each animal in their possession.
Can authorities seize animals before a conviction?
Yes. Law enforcement may seize neglected animals after obtaining a court order, with the owner liable for boarding and veterinary costs.
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