A dog license is your dog's fastest ticket home if they become lost in the City of Boston, and it's the law. All dog owners must license their dogs by April 1, 2025. Please keep in mind: you need a new license each year.
What you need to get a license for your dog:
Proof of your dog's current rabies vaccine
$30 payment, or $15 if your dog is spayed or neutered
You'll also need to pay any outstanding Animal Care and Control fines to get a license. If you are 70 or older — or if you have a service animal — we waive the license fee.
Other options to apply:
Aside from our online application, you can pick up a license in person, or apply by mail. We have more information in our how-to guide on dog licensing.
Upcoming dog licensing and rabies clinics:
March 1 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in Dorchester
March 15 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in West Roxbury
March 29 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in East Boston
April 5 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in the South End
April 12 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in Charlestown
May 3 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in Jamaica Plain
May 17 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in South Boston
May 31 from 10 a.m. - 2 pm. in Roxbury
Have questions, or no longer own a dog?Please email us at animalcontrol@boston.gov, or call 617-635-5348