Lemon Grove, California, Approves Ban on Retail Bird Sales in Pet Stores
Voters in Lemon Grove, California, have approved Measure E, a ballot initiative that bans the retail sale of birds in pet stores. This measure expands California’s existing rescue-only pet shop model to include birds, meaning pet stores will now facilitate adoptions through qualifying shelters and rescue organizations instead of selling birds from breeders. The legislation, which exempts birds intended for agricultural use or backyard flocks, will become effective upon official adoption, with enforcement commencing six months later. The city cites recurring bird welfare concerns, documented through resident complaints and animal control inspection records, as a primary reason for the ban. The San Diego Humane Society supported Measure E, with its president and CEO, Dr. Gary Weitzman, emphasizing the complex care needs of birds and the benefits of encouraging adoption to ensure lasting commitments from families. Lemon Grove joins other U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C., Cambridge, Massachusetts, and W...
