All cats and dogs older than four months must be licensed. Getting your pet a license is important to show they have had the Rabies shot. Even if your pet stays indoors, they can still get rabies because bats can get into homes, and pets might try to catch them. Licensing also helps bring lost pets back to their owners and helps support shelters like BARCS.

How to Apply

• Step 01: Have your pet(s) vaccinated for rabies, and keep the rabies vaccination certificate.
• Step 02: Purchase a pet license tag.

License Fees

The pet license fees vary based on your pet's status and whether you're eligible for any discounts. 

See pet license fees

Resources

• More information on your pet's safety and health, download the Baltimore Healthy Pets Brochure
• View the Animal Ordinances in the City of Baltimore Code

*Disclaimer: Visit PetData for the latest information on pet licensing.

Planning to keep a wild, exotic, or livestock animal? You’ll need a permit for that! Applications must be submitted within 10 days of acquiring the animal.

How to Apply

• Step 01: Gather required documents.
• Step 02: Schedule a meeting with the Office of Animal Control by calling (410) 396-4698 

Required Documents and Information

• Permit application form
• Affidavit: certifying no prior convictions for animal abuse, cruelty, or neglect.
• Applicant’s Name and Address: full contact details.
• Animal Information: the type, breed, age, and gender of the animal(s).
• Written Permission: If you rent, provide written permission from the property owner.

Except for beekeeping, the following must also be provided:

• Photo of the Animal: include a clear, recent photo of the animal.
• Proof of Current Vaccinations: show proof of vaccination and a health examination for the animal.
• Inspection of Health and Vaccination Records: the Animal Control Office may ask for them.

See permit fee

Resources:

Permit regulations for wild, exotic, hybrid, and livestock animals (download)

Ready to open a vet hospital, groomer, shelter, or have a rubber stable? Find the steps and requirements you need to get your permit here.
Application Fee: $250.00

How to Apply

• Step 01: Gather required documents
• Step 02: Schedule a meeting with the Office of Animal Control by calling (410) 396-4698

Required Documents and Information

• Commercial facility license application (download)
• Affidavit: certifying that the applicant, owner, operator, agent, and/or employee has never been convicted of animal abuse, cruelty, or neglect.
• Lease Agreement: If you are a lessee, bring a copy of the lease agreement.
• Written Permission: If you are renting, submit written permission from the property owner to house multiple animals.
• Bring all relevant Maryland licenses, Baltimore City zoning permits, variances, building permits, trade permits, and all other necessary documentation.

For a rubber stable animal license, you will also need:

• Proof of Rabies Vaccination: If applicable, a photo of each animal currently at the residence, and any animal license or permit.
• Posting and Residence Requirements: Refer to the requirements below.

View residence requirements for rubber stable license

Check posting requirements for rubber stable license

Resources

Download the standards for getting a facility or commercial license

Planning to use an electronic fence for your dog? This guide shows you how to apply for a permit in Baltimore City. The dog owner or keeper needs to fill out the application.

How to Apply

• Step 01: Gather required documents
• Step 02: Schedule a meeting with the Office of Animal Control by calling (410) 396-4698

Required Documents and Information

• Electronic Fence application form
• Site Plan: show where the electronic fence will go, including the property lines, measurements, and any existing buildings or structures.
• Written Statement: the applicant must write a statement with proof showing how they meet the electronic fence required standards.
• Proof of Neutering/Spaying: a document showing the animal has been neutered or spayed.
• Written Statement: a statement confirming the applicant understands fence approval does not remove responsibility for their dog, and that applicant accepts full responsibility for any harm the dog causes - including when using an electronic fence.
• Written Permission: If applicant doesn't own the property, they need a written permission from the property owner.
• Posting and Fence Requirements: see details below

View electronic fence standards

Check posting requirements for electronic fence exemption

See requirements after approval of electric fence

Helpful Links

Download the regulatory action on electronic fences as animal restraints