- Home
- City Departments
- City Clerk
- Dog Licenses
Dog License
Love me? License me.
Not only does a license help protect "man's best friend," it's the law.
New York State Law requires that every person owning or harboring a dog must obtain a license for that dog. If you have just moved in or added a new canine member to your family, getting a license for your dog is a must.
Change in Licensing Procedure
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets no longer administers dog licenses. As a result of this change, we seized the opportunity to improve certain aspects of the licensing process. Our dog licenses are printed on a wallet-sized biodegradable plastic card and contain information that we have on file for your pet. We also offer the option to have your dog's photo on the card at an additional one-time fee of $2. Our tags read, "White Plains, NY" with the license number on one side and on the reverse side, it reads "If found, please help me - call 914-422-6111." This number will connect the finder to the Police Department and they can assist in getting your dog back home. The following is a sample of our Dog License.
License Application
Use this Dog License Application (PDF) to license your dog today!
Contact
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call our office by dialing 914-422-1227, or send us an email.
Important Message to Dog Owners
Regulations
The following are excerpts from the City of White Plains Municipal Code:
- Section 1 - Dogs are not permitted to be at large other than in the owner's home or on the premises of another person with his/her permission. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $100.
- Section 2 - In all other cases, dog owners must have their dogs on leashes not exceeding eight feet in length. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $100.
- Section 3 - It shall be the duty of each dog owner to remove any feces left by his/her dog on any sidewalk, gutter, street or other public areas. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $100.
- Section 4 - All dogs must be licensed in compliance with Article 7 of the Agriculture and Markets Law. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $25.
Vaccinations
All dog owners, in addition to licensing their dogs, must have them vaccinated for rabies. At the time of licensing/renewing a dog license, a statement or certificate from a licensed veterinarian must be presented. Failure to have your dog vaccinated may result in substantial penalties.
Loud, Unnecessary, or Unusual Noises
It is unlawful to keep any animal, bird, or insect which, by causing frequent or continued loud noise or noises, shall unreasonably disturb the peace, comfort, or repose of any person in the vicinity. This violation is punishable by a fine of up to $100, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both.
Impoundment
Any dog seized may be redeemed by its owner, who must provide proof of license and vaccination and pay the impoundment fee, which shall be $10 for every 24 hours, or part thereof.