Do I need to register my pets in Calgary?
Yes, registering pets in Calgary is mandatory. According to the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, all cats and dogs over three months old must have a valid Calgary city license, regardless of whether they are domestic or stray animals. This requirement has been in effect since January 1, 2007, for cats and much earlier for dogs, making Calgary one of the pioneers of mandatory cat licensing in North America.
Legislative background and evolution of the licensing system
The pet licensing system in Calgary has evolved gradually over the past two decades. Mandatory dog licensing has been in place for over 20 years, while cat licensing was introduced in 2007 after a lengthy period of public consultation. Initially, the city authorities gave cat owners a one-year “grace period” to adapt to the new requirements, but full enforcement came into effect in 2008.
The updated Responsible Pet Ownership Ordinance came into force on January 1, 2022, and includes expanded provisions on controlling the number of animals in a household, expanded powers for the chief enforcement officer, and increased fines for violations.
Current licensing fees
| License type | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unsterilized cats (male/female) | $43 | $43 | $44 |
| Sterilized cats | $21 | $21 | $22 |
| Kittens up to 6 months (unsterilized) | $21 | $21 | $22 |
| Unsterilized dogs (males/females) | $70 | $70 | $71 |
| Sterilized dogs | $44 | $44 | $45 |
| Puppies up to 6 months (unsterilized) | $44 | $44 | $45 |
| License for aggressive animals | $310 | $310 | $315 |
| License for animals that disturb the peace | $123 | $123 | $125 |
Replacing a lost tag costs $5–6, depending on the year.
License application process
There are several ways to apply for a license:
- Online: Through your myID account on the city's official website. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Interac are accepted. You can set up automatic renewal and email reminders.
- In person: At the Animal Services Centre at 2201 Portland Street S.E. or on the third floor of the Municipal Building at 800 Macleod Trail S.E.
- By phone: 311 (within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (outside the city).
- By mail: Send the completed form with a check to Animal Services, License Renewal, 2201 Portland Street S.E., Calgary, AB, T2G 4M7.
Sterilization verification requirements
Effective January 1, 2022, documentary proof of sterilization must be provided within seven days of paying for the license in order to receive the discount:
- Sterilization certificate
- Veterinary receipt
- Veterinary letter
- Adoption agreement
- Written statement certified by Animal Services staff
If confirmation is not provided, the license will be revoked or the status of the animal will be changed.
Restrictions on the number of pets
Maximum — 6 cats and 6 dogs over three months old. For more animals, an Excess Animal Permit is required.
Fines and enforcement
- Unlicensed animals: $250 fine
- False statements about sterilization: $500 fine
Benefits of licensing
- Funding for the care and treatment of stray animals
- Free spaying and neutering for low-income residents
- Educational programs
- Pet return program
- Emergency assistance
ID tag requirements
- Dogs with microchips or tattoos are not required to wear ID tags
- Cats must wear ID tags if they do not have a microchip or a legible tattoo
Conclusion
Pet registration in Calgary is not a formality, but an effective system that ensures animal safety and supports the community. Newcomers should register their pets within the first few weeks to avoid fines and ensure the protection of their pets.