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Home > Services > Annual Dog License
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Annual Dog License

Animal Commission

State law requires that all dogs over 6 months have a current dog license. The dog license period in Cambridge runs from April 1 of current year to March 31 of following year. Cambridge residents can apply for a dog’s license online. Alternatively, paper copies are also available at the Animal Control Office or can be downloaded here. 

If you are an existing dog owner trying to renew your record, please note you will receive an email in the month of FEBRUARY with renewal information. If you did not receive an email, please email or call the office at (617) 349-4376.

The fee for a dog license for a spayed/neutered dog is $20, or $30 for a dog that is not spayed or neutered. Dog licenses are renewed annually. The fine for an unlicensed dog is $50.

In order to obtain a dog license, owners must provide proof of Cambridge residency and have a current rabies vaccination. See full list of requirements in FAQs below. Dogs can be vaccinated at the veterinarian’s office, at clinics held at some pet stores, or low cost clinics held periodically.

NOTICE: The Animal Control Office is now open to members of the public to: obtain a dog license, answer other regulatory questions, or provide general assistance. Appointments can also be made on Tuesdays and Thursdays online, by phone at 617-349-4376, or by email at animalcommission@cambridgema.gov. Appointments will be scheduled in 30-minute increments. If you miss your appointment, you will have to reschedule for another day.

Additional Information

For date and location of the next low-cost Rabies Vaccination Clinic, at which licensing is also available, please contact Cambridge Animal Commission at 617-349-4376 or animalcommission@cambridgema.gov. Generally, microchipping is also available at these clinics for a fee.

Dog licenses can be a ticket home if your dog becomes lost; the number on the tag can be traced back to the owner for a safe return.


What do I need to license my dog(s)and how much does it cost?

Here are the requirements for licensing your dog in Cambridge: 

  1. Provide proof of Cambridge residency, such as a utility bill dated within the last 30 days, or two pieces of mail with your name and address. 
  2. Present a current rabies vaccination certificate, medical history with the rabies ration date, or a letter from your veterinarian stating that they will not vaccinate your pet for medical reasons.  Vaccines are good for 1 to 3 years.
  3. Show proof of spay or neuter, if not shown before, such as the actual surgery certificate or mention of it on the Rabies/Medical History. 
  4. The fees is $20 for a spayed female or neutered male and $30 for an unspayed female or unneutered male. The fine for an unlicensed dog is $50.
  5. You can apply online, by mail (print and fill out a license application and mail it along with a self-addressed stamped envelope), or in person at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, in the Animal Commission Office. 
  6. If applying in person, be prepared to pay by cash, check, or money order, payable to the City of Cambridge. Credit cards are not accepted.  

What is a Dog License and Why is a Dog Required to Wear One?

A dog license is a tag issued by the city that provides the licensing authority with a current rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian, which ensures the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. It also serves as a form of identification if your dog gets lost. Your dog's license tag must be attached and displayed on the dog under MGL Ch. 140 Sec. 137.

Cambridge dog licenses are valid from April 1 through March 31 of the following year. All dogs aged six months and older must be licensed.

All Tags Expire on March 31 No Matter When You Obtained a License.

Note: A current Cambridge dog license is required to utilize the off-leash areas in Cambridge.  

Does my Cat Need to be Vaccinated for Rabies or be Licensed?

Yes, rabies vaccines are required by state law and are important for your pet's protection. Even if your cat is kept indoors, it must be vaccinated for rabies. Cats can be exposed to rabies by encountering high-risk carriers such as bats and raccoons. 

Cats are not required to be licensed, but the Animal Commission recommends both indoor and outdoor cats wear a safety collar and ID tag. 


Page was last modified on 4/3/2025 11:41 AM
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