Dog Licensing (7 § 3921)

  • Law: Every dog over 6 months must be licensed with the municipality. (read full version)
  • Explanation:

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS

Part 9: ANIMAL WELFARE

Chapter 721: DOG LICENSES

§3921. License Necessary

Under §3921 of Maine’s animal welfare laws, it is required that any dog kept within the state must be properly licensed by its owner or keeper, according to state regulations. This means that individuals who own or care for dogs are legally obligated to ensure their pets are registered with the relevant municipal authorities. Licensing is essential for tracking dog ownership and ensuring compliance with other related regulations, such as rabies vaccinations.

Licensing Requirements for Law Enforcement Dogs

Law enforcement agencies within the state, including county and municipal departments, must also license any dogs used for law enforcement purposes. These agencies must register their dogs in the municipality where the dog is domiciled, just like any other dog owner in the state. However, law enforcement agencies are exempt from paying any licensing or recording fees, provided they meet all other licensing conditions. This exemption reflects the special role that law enforcement dogs play in public service, but it still maintains accountability by requiring the dogs to be licensed.

Section History

This section was first introduced as new legislation in 1987 under Public Law 1987, c. 383, §3. It has since been amended in 1995 and again in 1997 to clarify and update the licensing requirements for dogs, including specific provisions for law enforcement agencies. These updates ensure that dog licensing remains an essential part of responsible pet ownership and public safety efforts in the state of Maine.

  • How to License: Owners can license their dogs through the town clerk or online via the Maine Department of Agriculture website.

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