(1) A brand inspector has the authority of a special function officer for the purpose of enforcing this chapter and the brand inspector may, if proper, stop a vehicle carrying livestock or livestock carcasses for the purpose of examining brands, certificates of brand inspection, and bills of lading or bills of sale relating to the livestock in transit.
(2)
(a) A brand inspector may enter premises where livestock are kept or maintained for the purpose of examining brands.
(b) If admittance is refused, the department may proceed immediately to obtain an ex parte warrant from the nearest court of competent jurisdiction to allow entry upon the premises for the purpose of examining brands or other evidence of ownership.