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Residents Sue Town and Zoo Over Permit Dispute
16 Oct
Summary
- Residents near Shalom Wildlife Zoo file lawsuit against town and zoo
- Dispute over zoo's permit to operate and expand with new event space
- Concerns raised about animal safety, traffic, and environmental impact
In October 2025, a dispute between residents and the nearby Shalom Wildlife Zoo in Washington County has escalated to the courtroom. A group of Farmington residents, including two of the zoo's neighbors, have filed a lawsuit against both the Town of Farmington and the zoo itself.
The lawsuit argues that the town officials wrongly approved a permit in January 2025 that allowed Shalom Wildlife Zoo, formally registered as Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary LLC, to continue operating and construct a new event venue on its property. Residents claim the town's decision disregards safety concerns related to the zoo's animal enclosures and the increased traffic and environmental impact the event space would bring.
Shalom Wildlife Zoo, owned by David and Lana Fetcher, has been operating in the Town of Farmington since 1979. The facility houses a variety of exotic and domestic animals, including tigers and camels. While the zoo is federally licensed as an "exhibitor" by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it lacks accreditation from more stringent organizations like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The lawsuit, filed by a group called "We Love Farmington," is making its way through the Washington County Circuit Court. Oral arguments are scheduled for August 2026. In the meantime, local businesses and a printing company are rallying support and raising funds for Shalom Wildlife Zoo's legal defense.
