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Animal Control & Licenses

City parks and public spaces are regularly patrolled by Animal Control Services to ensure all dogs and dog owners are acting responsibly, so everyone can enjoy public spaces. Animal Control Services has been contracted by to enforce the City's Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 7316.

Dog Licenses

All dogs over the age of four months are required to have a valid dog licence in the City of Nanaimo.

Did you know? 100% of the fees collected from dog licensing go towards the costs of operating the Nanaimo Animal Shelter, including care and adoption.

Why licence your dog?

  • It is the most effective way to reunite lost dogs with their owners.
  • It is a mandatory requirement for all dogs over the age of four (4) months. Owners can be ticketed $50/day for non-compliance.
  • With a valid dog licence, owners avoid additional penalties if the dog is impounded.
  • It encourages owner accountability. Licence tags must be worn on a collar when the dog is in a public space or on private property other than where the dog is normally kept.
  • Licence fees help offset the costs of operating an animal control and pound service which shelters, feeds, and provides care for lost animals.

How to licence your dog

You can apply for a Dog Licence online: Apply for a New Dog Licence

Or in person at the following locations:

  • City of Nanaimo Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street - Open Monday to Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm)
  • Nanaimo Animal Shelter (1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road - Open Monday to Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm and Saturday 9:00am - 4:00pm)

If you do not live within the the City of Nanaimo's limits, you do not require a valid licence for your dog(s) with the City of Nanaimo. Please check with the municipality you reside in as to licensing requirements in your area.

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Dog Licence Information

Contact Us

Dog Licensing
250-755-4525
dog.lic@nanaimo.ca

Last updated: May 9, 2025

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