Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L.) Chapter 140 Section 137 REQUIRES that ALL dogs six months or older be licensed. The City of Pittsfield licenses dogs through the City Clerk’s Office. Violators are subject to a fine up to $300 per violation, plus court costs.
When am I supposed to get a license for my dog?
Annual dog licensing begins Apri1 1st of each year. A dog owner must apply for a license when a puppy turns 6 months of age, OR within 30 days of obtaining a new dog. If the adoption or purchase occurs after April 1, the owner must provide the bill of sale/transfer of ownership paperwork to avoid late fees. To prove ownership, current documentation from a veterinarian’s office, adoption paperwork, or a bill of sale with the new owner’s information is required.
An annual license is $10.00 per dog if the animal/s is/are spayed/neutered, and $20.00 per dog if the animal is unaltered. Service Dogs with documentation will be licensed at no charge to Owner.
Where are Dog Licenses available?
1) In Person: Pittsfield City Clerk’s Office, Pittsfield City Hall, 70 Allen St.
2) By USPS Mail: City Clerk, 70 Allen St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
3) By Secured Drop-Off Box: City Hall Parking Lot at rear of building
4) ONLINE: City of Pittsfield website (www.cityofpittsfield.org)
- Licenses are issued each year, expiring on March 31. The renewal period for said licenses is April 1-30 annually. Licenses renewed after April 30 are subject to a late fee.
- To obtain an annual dog license, in addition to the above described fees, an owner must provide a current rabies vaccination certificate and Spay or Neuter certificate (if applicable).
- Call the City Clerk’s Office at (413) 499-9361 with any questions.
Why should I license my dog/s?
- It’s the law. All dogs six months and older must have a current license.
- If your dog gets lost, a license is the best identification method. A license helps animal control and shelters identify your dog and get them back home safely. License tags must be affixed to all dogs at all times.
- The cost of a license is less than the penalty for being unlicensed. Owners who fail to license their dogs could face a fine of up to $300 for each unlicensed dog.