Who needs a pet license in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, §137 (accessed August 29, 2026), all dogs six months of age or older must be licensed annually with the clerk of the city or town where the owner resides. This applies to every municipality in the state — there is no opt-out.
Massachusetts does not require cat licenses at the state level, but some municipalities — including Boston and Cambridge — have adopted local cat licensing ordinances. Check with your city or town clerk.
Failure to license your dog can result in a fine. Under MGL Chapter 140, §141 (accessed August 29, 2026), cities and towns may impose late fees and civil penalties for unlicensed dogs.
What you need to apply
- Current rabies vaccination certificate. Under MGL Chapter 140, §145B (accessed August 29, 2026), no license may be issued unless the owner provides a veterinarian's certificate showing a current rabies vaccination. Massachusetts requires rabies vaccination for all dogs and cats six months of age and older.
- Proof of spay or neuter. Spayed/neutered dogs pay significantly reduced license fees in every Massachusetts municipality. Bring the certificate from your vet or a letter on clinic letterhead.
- Owner identification. Proof of residency in the licensing municipality — typically a government-issued ID with your current address.
Fees: what to expect
Massachusetts sets minimum license fees at the state level, but municipalities can and do add their own charges. Here's what the largest cities and towns typically charge:
| Municipality | Spayed / Neutered | Unaltered | Late Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | $15/year | $30/year | $50 after deadline |
| Worcester | $10/year | $20/year | $25 after June 1 |
| Springfield | $10/year | $20/year | $25 after deadline |
| Cambridge | $15/year | $25/year | $50 after March 31 |
Most Massachusetts towns set their licensing deadline between March 1 and April 1. After that date, late fees apply and your town's animal control officer may issue a citation. Renewing on time is always the better option.
How to apply: step by step
- Get your dog's rabies vaccination current. If the certificate has expired, visit your vet first. No town clerk will issue a license without a current rabies certificate.
- Check your town clerk's website. Many Massachusetts towns now offer online licensing. Boston, Cambridge, Brookline, and Newton all support online applications and accept credit card payment.
- Fill out the application. Provide your name, address, dog's breed, age, sex, color, and whether the dog is spayed or neutered. Some towns ask for a microchip number.
- Submit your documents. Upload or bring your rabies certificate and spay/neuter proof. Online portals accept photos or scans of the original certificates.
- Pay the fee. Online: credit card. In person at town hall: check or cash (varies by municipality).
- Receive your tag. Online applicants get the metal tag mailed within 2–3 weeks. In-person applicants receive it immediately.
Massachusetts-specific details worth knowing
- The licensing period runs January 1 to December 31 in most towns. Some towns (including Boston) set a different renewal window — check your town clerk's office for your specific deadline.
- Kennel licenses: Under MGL Chapter 140, §137A (accessed August 29, 2026), anyone keeping four or more dogs must obtain a kennel license from the city or town clerk. Kennel licenses cost more than individual dog licenses and require an annual inspection in some municipalities.
- Dangerous dog designations: If a dog has been deemed dangerous by a municipal hearing officer, additional licensing requirements and insurance proof may apply. The licensing process is separate from the standard application.
- Senior and disability discounts: Several Massachusetts towns offer reduced license fees for residents 65 and older or those with a disability. Boston and Cambridge both offer these discounts — ask your town clerk.
Your document checklist
Last verified: August 29, 2026. Pet licensing requirements change — check your town clerk's website for current fees and deadlines. This guide covers general Massachusetts requirements; your city or town may have additional rules.