Dog Licensing

Pets are an important part of our community.  Please help us keep the County a safe, clean and friendly place to live through your responsible, humane pet ownership.  We are pleased to provide the following information to you regarding our Cecil County animal regulations.

• Dogs over the age of four (4) months must be immunized against rabies and must have a current dog license.
• Licenses are sold in the Treasurer's Office, at the SPCA, in the Towns of North East, Perryville and Rising Sun and at several local veterinarian offices.
• Licenses are annual licenses based on a fiscal year covering July 1 through June 30.
• A valid immunization certificate must be presented to obtain a dog license tag.
• An individual requesting licenses for 5 or more dogs will be required to first check with the Department of Planning and Zoning to determine if a commercial kennel license is necessary.  Please note that if a special exception for a commercial license is required, it is a separate, additional fee; each dog must also be individually licensed and have proof of a current rabies vaccination.  

Cost of regular license

• $6.00 if neutered or spayed
• $8.00 all others
• No cost for Seeing Eye or other Service dogs
• $1.00 for replacement tags if original tag is lost

Cost of kennel license

• 5-10 dogs - $25.00
• 11-20 dogs - $30.00
• 21-30 dogs - $45.00
• 31-70 dogs - $60.00

Dog license violations are issued by the SPCA and fines are payable in the Treasurer's Office.

Click here for application for dog license - - dog license application.pdf