Dog Licences
Learn about Burlington’s animal shelter, pet adoption and wildlife care services, and find out how to apply for or renew your dog licence.
We provide food, care and a temporary home for many stray, sick, injured and orphaned domestic and wild animals in the Burlington community each year.
Unclaimed domestic animals are put up for adoption and wild animals are brought to a rehabilitation centre when possible.
Dogs in the City of Burlington must have a licence under our Animal Control Bylaw. Dog licences are valid for one year from the date of purchase and need to be renewed annually.
Apply for or renew a dog licence
Apply for or renew your City of Burlington dog licence online. You can also apply in person or renew by mail. Dog licensing fees help support animal care, shelter services and community programs.
Apply by mail
Dog licence renewals can be mailed back to:
Burlington Animal Shelter
2424 Industrial St.
Burlington ON L7P 1A5
Please note that the office is closed and is only available to be visited by appointment.
Apply in-person
You can make an appointment to apply for or renew your dog licence in-person at the Service Burlington counter in City Hall.
Licensing and renewal fees
Dog licence fees depend on whether your dog is spayed or neutered or not. There are also additional fees for late renewals.
Spayed or neutered dog fees
The licensing fee for a spayed or neutered dog is $29.84. You must provide proof of spaying or neutering to qualify for this reduced fee. If you spay or neuter your dog after you have already licensed it, you can receive a partial refund.
If you are more than 30 days past your dog licence expiry date, you will be charged a $10 late fee.
Unaltered dog (not spayed or neutered] fees
The licensing fee for unaltered dogs (not spayed or neutered) is $60.88.
If you are more than 30 days past your dog licence expiry date, you will be charged a $10 late fee.
Reuniting lost dogs
Dog licences are the fastest way to reunite you with your lost dog. Every year in Burlington, dogs are quickly reunited with their owners because they were found wearing a current licence. Registration information is updated annually, so City staff can respond quickly.
Dogs passing away
If you have a current dog licence and your dog has passed away, please let us know. Your record will be updated so that you will no longer receive licence reminders. You can receive a partial refund by bringing a receipt of euthanasia or a death certificate from your veterinarian to the Burlington Animal Shelter.
Adopt a dog
The Burlington Animal Shelter has many dogs who are waiting for their forever homes. If you are thinking about getting a dog, please consider adopting a dog from our shelter.