Dog Licensing in Maine
Maine law requires that every canine over 6 months of age be licensed in the town where the animal lives.
Law Reference
Title 7, Agriculture and Animals
Part 9, Animal Welfare
Chapter 721, Dog Licenses
Section 3921, License Necessary
https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/7/title7sec3921.html
What This Means for You
If you own or keep a canine in Buckfield, Hartford, Sumner, West Paris, Stoneham, or the Oxford County Unorganized Territories, you must license that animal with your municipality. Licensing helps ensure compliance with rabies vaccination law, makes it easier to return lost animals, and supports community safety and animal health.
Licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. You will need a current rabies vaccination certificate to license or renew.
How to License In Person
You can license your animal at your local town office (town clerk) during normal business hours. Bring your animal’s current rabies certificate and payment for the state and municipal licensing fees.
How to License Online
Many towns in Maine participate in the online dog licensing program. You can complete licensing or renewals from home using a credit or debit card and your animal’s rabies certificate.
Official Maine Online Licensing Portal (Animal Welfare Program)
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ahw/animal_welfare/doglicense/index.shtml
At that link you can:
- Create a new canine license
- Renew a current license
- Update owner or animal information
- Print your license tag
Law Enforcement Canines
Canines used by law enforcement agencies must also be licensed in the municipality where they reside. These animals are exempt from licensing and recording fees, but the licensing requirement itself still applies under Maine law.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure where to license or need assistance with online licensing, contact your local town office. Residents in Buckfield, Hartford, Sumner, West Paris, Stoneham, and the Oxford County Unorganized Territories may also call Oxford County Dispatch at 207-743-9554 option 0 and ask to speak with Animal Control.
