Dog licenses

Why should you license your dog?

Licensing your dog is required by New York State Agriculture and Markets Law and the Municipal Code of the City of Rochester. There are fines for citizens with unlicensed dogs. A dog license is not only a requirement, it also provides the following benefits:

It identifies and protects your dog in case it becomes lost.
It identifies that your dog is not a stray.
Animal Services will contact you if your dog comes to the shelter wearing a license tag.
A license is proof that your dog has been vaccinated against rabies.

Requirements

All dogs four months and older that reside in the City of Rochester must have a valid dog license.
Owners must provide a current rabies certificate issued by a veterinarian.
If the dog is spayed or neutered, proof must be provided.
Licenses must be renewed annually; renewals will be mailed to the address on file. Make checks payable to the "City of Rochester".
Licenses must be updated when you move and/or when ownership of the dog is transferred, or the dog is lost, stolen or deceased.

Fees

$10.00 for spayed or neutered dogs
$30.00 for dogs not spayed or neutered
$35.00 for each purebred dog
A fee of $3.00 is collected for a lost dog tag

Service and guide dogs will be licensed free of charge (documentation required).

License your dog

Visit the City Clerk's Office at:
City Hall, 30 Church Street, Room 100A, Rochester, NY 14614

Mail the following information to the address above:

A copy of the rabies certificate
Proof that dog was spayed or neutered, if applicable
Check or money order for $10.00 (spayed or neutered) or $30.00 (not spayed or neutered)
Provide us with your name, address and telephone number

If you would like information on pure breeds, please call 428-6617. If you would like to learn more about Animal Services, please click here.