Code Blue / Code Red Announcements:
Current Code Blue Status:
The Animal Rescue League of Berks County has extended the Code Blue Ordinance for the City Of Reading, PA – Government for the following times:
January 23 at 5:00 PM – February 4 at 12pm
Times are subject to change and will be updated here
* ongoing until further notice
What is Code Blue / Code Red?
Our officers assist the Reading Police Department in enforcing Code Blue and Code Red laws during weather conditions that are unsafe for prolonged exposure. Code Blue is called when the National Weather Service predicts a wind chill of 20⁰ or less, or ice/snow events with temperatures below 32⁰. Code Red is called when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures with a heat index of at least 95⁰ or higher. Code Blue or Red is announced at least 8 hours before taking effect, and is announced on our website and social media channels, as well as local news stations. Once the Code has been declared, dogs may not be left unattended outdoors except for brief walks and periods of exercise. Any dog left unattended outdoors for more than 15-20 minutes will be impounded and the owner fined. Fines range from $350 to $1,000 plus impoundment and court costs per violation.
Although we recommend that all pet owners in Berks County bring their pets indoors during extreme weather, Code Blue and Code Red is only enforceable in the City of Reading, and the law only pertains to dogs regardless of breed or tolerance of extreme weather conditions.
Who do I call?
Any person witnessing an unsupervised dog left outside in the elements within the City of Reading should call:
- From 9:00 am – 5:00 pm please call the Animal Rescue League of Berks County at 610-373-8830 x. 400
- Overnight /after ARL Hours, please call the non-emergency number for the City of Reading Police Department at (610) 655-6116
Why does this only apply to the City of Reading?
Code Blue and Code Red ordinances are established at the municipal level. Each municipality determines whether to enact its own version of these protections and how they are enforced. The City of Reading has chosen to adopt this specific code, and our organization works in partnership with the Reading Police Department to help announce and support its enforcement.
Other municipalities may have similar ordinances in place or may enforce animal welfare protections in different ways. If you feel strongly that your municipality should adopt a similar code, we encourage you to contact your local municipal officials to advocate for its consideration.
Does this apply to cats?
Under the city ordinance, Code Blue and Code Red provisions apply specifically to dogs only. However, if there is evidence that an owned cat is being abandoned outdoors—particularly during extreme weather conditions such as a Code Blue or Code Red—this may constitute neglect. In those cases, a formal cruelty complaint can be submitted for investigation.
These provisions do not apply to outdoor community cats that do not have an identifiable owner. Community cats are adapted to living outdoors, and different standards apply to their care.
For individuals interested in helping community cats during extreme weather, there are safe and effective ways to provide support. We encourage you to view our tutorial on building protective cold-weather shelters here: https://youtu.be/YpG3oJ6whn4
What are the requirements for the ARL or police to seize an animal under Code Blue/Code Red
The seizure of an animal is governed by state and local law and requires clear evidence that the animal’s basic welfare needs are not being met. By law, animals must have access to an appropriate shelter that is capable of retaining body heat and protecting them from the elements. While this shelter may look different from what some pet owners would choose for their own pets, there are structures that legally meet these requirements.
During a Code Blue or Code Red, pets should only be outdoors for short periods—generally no more than 15–20 minutes at a time—for brief bathroom breaks or exercise. Prolonged outdoor exposure during these conditions may constitute a violation.
In many cases, owners may be unaware that a code is in effect. Education and compliance are our primary goals during these visits. When owners are cooperative and take immediate steps to improve their animals’ conditions, a seizure may not be necessary or legally warranted.
While it can be frustrating to report a concern and not see the outcome you expected, please know that our team is committed to the well-being of all animals. We are required to act within the scope of the law and must have sufficient evidence to take enforcement action, including seizure.