Following similar bans by smaller municipalities in the U.S. and Canada, the Los Angeles City Council has tentatively adopted a ban on pet stores’ sales of many animals obtained from commercial breeders.

The ban, which still must pass a final vote by the council, would limit the city’s pet stores to selling dogs, cats, and rabbits obtained from shelters, humane societies and rescue groups. The first violation would mean a $250 fine for the store; that amount would increase with further violations.

If passed, L.A. would become the largest city in the country to enact such a ban.

Consumers can still purchase animals directly from breeders, as the ordinance is targeted at so-called “puppy mills” that supply a large volume of pets to stores, many of which have to be euthanized every year.

One pet store owner tells the L.A. Times that the law, which would be reviewed and possibly extended after three years, is unfair, claiming that she has been purchasing her dogs from a local breeder who does not mistreat the animals.

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.