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
You can apply for your dog licence online or in person. You can renew your dog licence online, by mail or in person.
Apply for or renew a dog licence
Apply by mail
Dog licence renewals can be mailed back to:
Burlington Animal Shelter
2424 Industrial St.
Burlington ON L7P 1A5
Apply in-person
You can apply for or renew your dog licence in-person at the Service Burlington counter in City Hall.
Licensing and renewal fees
Due to COVID-19, in-person payment at Burlington Animal Shelter is currently unavailable.
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 $27.32. 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 late fee of $37.32.
Unaltered dog (not spayed or neutered] fees
The licensing fee for unaltered dogs (not spayed or neutered) is $55.72.
If you are more than 30 days past your dog licence expiry date, you will be charged a late fee of $65.72.
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.