Mount Pleasant Considers $50 Fine for Feeding Stray Cats

Residents voice concerns over proposed ordinance change at city council meeting

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:39pm

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The Mount Pleasant City Council heard from a group of residents who are upset about a proposed ordinance that would add a $50 fine for feeding stray cats. The current ordinance has prohibited feeding stray cats for around 40 years, but the new element would be the monetary penalty.

Why it matters

The proposed fine has sparked concerns from residents who care for and feed stray cats in the community. The city's partnership with a local nonprofit that provides shelter and food for cats adds another layer of complexity to the issue.

The details

Mount Pleasant Police Chief Lyle Murray clarified that individuals would first receive three warnings over a two-year period before a fine could be issued. He emphasized that the police department has little interest in actively enforcing the ordinance and that enforcement typically only occurs when neighbors raise concerns.

  • The current ordinance prohibiting feeding stray cats has been in place for roughly 40 years.
  • The proposed ordinance adding a $50 fine was discussed at a city council meeting on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.

The players

Lyle Murray

Mount Pleasant Police Chief who clarified the details of the proposed ordinance change.

All of God's Creatures

A Mount Pleasant nonprofit that provides shelter and food for cats and participates in a trap-and-neuter-release program, partnering with the police department.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.