Morocco enforces new law restricting feeding of stray animals in public

Morocco has implemented a new law that restricts individuals from feeding, sheltering, or treating stray animals in public areas outside of an authorized framework. Law No. 19.25, which entered into force on August 10 after being published in the Official Gazette, came into effect following its royal decree on July 28. The law imposes fines of up to 2,000 dirhams for violations in public spaces, residential buildings, and streets.

Article 5 of the legislation prohibits individuals from taking charge of stray animals by feeding, housing, or treating them, unless in compliance with the law and its implementing regulations.

Article 44 of the law stipulates fines between 500 and 2,000 dirhams for violations in public areas. The legislation goes beyond a ban on feeding stray cats and dogs, as it establishes a national system for managing stray animals. This system involves designated centers responsible for collection, care, identification, vaccination, treatment, and sterilization of stray animals. Once they meet the necessary conditions, these animals can be returned to suitable areas or offered for adoption.

The new law also imposes stricter penalties for abandoning or mistreating animals. Deliberately abandoning an animal in a public space can lead to fines ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 dirhams, while intentional killing, torturing, or mistreatment of a stray animal can result in imprisonment of two to six months and a fine between 5,000 and 20,000 dirhams.

The restrictions on feeding have drawn criticism from animal welfare campaigners, who argue that volunteers currently provide food and treatment to many street animals. They have called for clearer implementing regulations and the establishment of the required mechanisms. The government asserts that the broader framework aims to strike a balance between animal welfare and public health and safety, as well as to create a more organized system for managing Morocco's stray animal population.