Kemp signs bill banning pet sales at flea markets, parking lots

ATLANTA, Ga. - Georgia Governor Kemp signed into law the ban of transient outdoor sales of pets.

This comes after a recent increase in unorganized puppy sales. Many of the animals may not have proper vaccinations or they could have unknown health issues.

This groundbreaking bill makes it illegal to sell dogs, cats, or rabbits at any public or commercial spaces, including roadsides, parking lots, sidewalks, parks, recreational areas, and more.

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According to a news release from Best Friends Animal Society:

“House Bill 331 marks a significant victory in the effort to combat illicit pet sales across Georgia, helping to safeguard both pets and people looking to acquire pets. By eliminating these roadside and parking lot sales locations, the legislation will ultimately reduce the exploitation of animals, particularly those bred and sold through unethical practices. Many of these pets face dire outcomes due to buyers’ lack of preparedness, leading to overcrowded shelters and unnecessary suffering for the pets involved.”

To date, 11 jurisdictions in Georgia have enacted ordinances that fully prohibit pet sales at flea markets, regardless of whether they are licensed or not.

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