HARRISBURG, Pa. — On Jan. 21, 2024, The Dog Law Modernization Act takes effect, requiring all dogs 3 months and older to be licensed in Pennsylvania.
Dog owners must purchase new dog licenses by Jan. 1, 2024.
Pennsylvania's Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding sent a press release this week and said an annual license will be $8.70, while a lifetime license is $51.70.
If the animal is already spayed or neutered, the annual fee is $6.70 and a lifetime fee is $31.70.
Lifetime licenses require that the dog have a microchip or tattoo.
Secretary Redding also said these licenses help keep communities safe by funding the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement's work.
This includes:
- Inspecting Pennsylvania's boarding and breeding kennels.
- Monitoring dangerous dogs, investigating dog bites and holding owners responsible.
- Reuniting lost dogs to families and helping lost dogs find shelter.
The Shapiro Administration said changes to the Dog Law will help improve public safety and animal welfare standards, enhance transparency and customer service and modernize the licensing process for dog owners.
Fines for unlicensed dogs range from $50 to $300, plus court costs. Licenses can be purchased through Pennsylvania's county treasurers.
Discounts are also available to older adults and people with disabilities.
You can purchase licenses here.