North Dakota's rabies vaccination law
North Dakota Century Code § 36-21.2 requires vaccination against rabies for all dogs, cats, and ferrets. The North Dakota Department of Health coordinates rabies surveillance, with the State Veterinarian's office (part of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture) overseeing animal health policy. North Dakota's skunk population is a known rabies reservoir — the state regularly reports terrestrial rabies in skunks across western and central counties. Bat rabies is also present statewide. Source: North Dakota Department of Health — Rabies (accessed September 3, 2026).
Fargo — the largest city
Fargo requires all dogs four months and older to be licensed annually. The Fargo-Moorhead Humane Society operates as the animal control contractor. Fargo also requires cat licensing. Fees: approximately $15/year for altered dogs, $30/year for unaltered, with reduced rates for senior citizens. Proof of rabies vaccination is required. Fargo Municipal Code Chapter 10 governs animal licensing and control. Source: City of Fargo — Animal Control (accessed September 3, 2026).
Bismarck — the state capital
Bismarck requires dog licensing under the Bismarck Municipal Code. Central Dakota Humane Society serves as the city's animal services partner. Bismarck's licensing fees are similar to Fargo's, with significant discounts for altered pets. The city runs annual rabies vaccination clinics in partnership with local veterinarians — a good opportunity to handle both vaccination and licensing in one visit. Source: City of Bismarck — Animal Control (accessed September 3, 2026).
Grand Forks
Grand Forks requires dog and cat licensing under Grand Forks City Code Chapter 10. The Grand Forks Police Department's Animal Control division administers the program. Grand Forks partners with the Circle of Friends Humane Society for sheltering and adoption services. The city's location on the Minnesota border means some pet owners also need to understand Moorhead (MN) and Fargo licensing if they move across the metro area.
Minot, Williston, and western North Dakota
Minot and Williston — the major cities of western North Dakota — both require dog licensing. Western North Dakota's oil boom brought rapid population growth to these communities, and animal control services have expanded to match. Rural areas between cities generally have no licensing requirement, though the statewide rabies vaccination law applies everywhere.
Rural North Dakota
Much of North Dakota is rural agricultural land with no municipal licensing requirement. However, farm dogs and outdoor cats are at elevated rabies risk from skunks and bats. The North Dakota State Veterinarian strongly recommends rabies vaccination for all pets regardless of licensing status — and it's the law under NDCC § 36-21.2.
North Dakota pet license checklist
Last verified: September 3, 2026. State rabies law from NDCC § 36-21.2. City licensing from Fargo and Bismarck animal control. Fees and requirements can change — always verify with your local city. This guide is informational only and does not constitute legal advice.