The state's first-ever ordinance for regulating so-called puppy mills could get less restrictive for "responsible" breeders.

The Salt Lake County Council wants to make the licensing process more friendly for dog breeders in unincorporated areas such as Magna and Millcreek if they can prove they are responsible breeders.

Instead of having to seek a permit every year for producing a litter of puppies, those breeders could receive a five-year permit.

So how do you prove responsibility? By belonging to a group recognized by the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club or some other breeding organization that adheres to a code of ethics.

"We feel that this is a good step forward to improving the county breeder ordinance and, quite frankly, changing the dialogue between breeders and shelters," said Shawni Larrabee, director of Salt Lake County Animal Services.

The county passed the breeder ordinance late last year to better control puppy mills in unincorporated areas. The measure requires breeders to protect their dogs from inclement weather, provide annual health examinations and keep detailed breeding records.

Failure to comply with those requirements could result in a class B misdemeanor, which carries a maximum $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail.

After outcry from the breeder community, however, the county decided to tweak the rules to better recognize, and reward, responsible breeders who are taking caring of their animals.

Gene Baierschmidt, executive director of the Humane Society of Utah, is OK with the changes.

"We still think this ordinance holds breeders to a higher standard," he said, "and will allow Salt Lake County Animal Services to weed out and control irresponsible breeders."

The County Council gave the ordinance preliminary approval Tuesday. It now goes to a final vote.

jstettler@sltrib.com