Dog Licences
In the event your dog goes missing, a dog licence and tag are the best tools you can have to ensure your dog is returned.
Dog licences are required in the District of Sechelt and must be worn on the dog's collar at all times. Licences must be renewed every year by January 1st, renewal notices will be sent to owners before the due date.
Owners can purchase dog licences and renewals online or at the Municipal Hall, 5797 Cowrie Street.
Get a New or Renew a Dog Licence
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
|
Spayed/neutered dog |
$25.00 |
|
Not spayed/neutered dog |
$50.00 |
|
Nuisance Dog |
$200.00 |
|
Aggressive Dog |
$400.00 |
|
Replacement for lost dog tag |
$10.00 |
|
Assistance (guide) Dogs |
Free |
|
Owners 65 years+ |
$10 for altered dog $30 for unaltered dog $5 for replacement tag |
Owners who have had their dogs spayed or neutered are required to provide veterinary documentation certifying that the dog has been spayed or neutered.
Dog Regulation Frequently Asked Questions
| Q: What is the benefit of getting a dog licence? |
|
Bylaw Officers are often the first point of contact for someone who finds a dog or comes across a wondering dog. Licences help us easily locate the owner when a lost dog is found. Your dog's licence also acts like proof of ownership should your dog be found and taken to an animal shelter. |
| Q: Why is it a requirement in Sechelt to get a dog licence? |
|
It is a bylaw in the District of Sechelt to have dogs licensed. Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 611, 2023 It’s not a hefty fee at $25 a year for an altered dog and avoids the potential of being fined minimum $200. Residents 65 years and older pay a reduced fee of $10 a year for an altered dog. Licenses also help our Bylaw Officers keep tabs on dogs that may be deemed aggressive or dangerous. |
| Q: Where do the fees collected from dog licences go? |
| The District does not profit from the fees. Funds collected go towards administration, oversight and specific animal training for our Bylaw Officers. |
| Q: Am I required to clean up after my dog? |
|
Yes, dog owners must clean up their dogs' feces and dispose of it in a sanitary matter. |
| Q: What do I do if I lose my dog? |
|
If your dog becomes lost, contact the District of Sechelt at (604) 885-1986, the SPCA at (604) 740-0301, and all animal hospitals. |
| Q: What do I do if I find a dog? |
| If you find a dog, contact the District of Sechelt at (604) 8585-1986, and the SPCA at (604) 740-0301 |
| Q: Is there a "Leash Law"? What does that mean? |
|
Yes, dog owners must have the dog on a leash when off your property. This will stop the dog from running free. If your dog is seen running free it can be impounded.
If you wish to have your dog off-leash, please visit our Off Leash Dog Parks page to learn about our designated areas. |
| Q: What does it mean if my dog is impounded? |
| If your dog is impounded, it means that your dog has been taken into the custody of the Bylaw Enforcement Officer or the RCMP and taken to the Pound. If you wish to reclaim your dog a fee must be paid before the dog is released from the Pound. |
| Q: What is a dangerous dog? |
|
| Q: What do I do if I come across a dangerous dog? |
| Immediately report it to the Bylaw Enforcement Officer or the RCMP. |
| Q: If a dog is deemed as Dangerous, is it allowed in the District of Sechelt? |
| No. It must be removed of in a humane manner. |
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
|
Unlicensed dog |
$200.00 |
|
Dog tag not on the dog |
$50.00 |
|
Dog running free |
$150.00 |
|
Fail to remove excrement |
$150.00 |
|
Fail to remove a dangerous dog |
$300.00 |
|
Obstructing a bylaw officer |
$200.00 |