Licensing your dog

Chapter 140 of the Massachusetts General Laws requires all dogs to be licensed:

A license identifies your dog as yours, showing everyone your dog is not a homeless stray, that the owner cares enough to register the pet legally. Your dog’s personal data is kept on computer. Should your dog be found by an officer or private party, you can be notified as soon as possible. Local veterinarians are also more willing to invest emergency treatment in a sick or injured animal bearing a license tag. A license will be issued only if the owner has evidence of a rabies vaccination which is valid as of the date of issuance.  The fee for a dog license is $15.00.  An owner or keeper of a dog who fails to renew a dog license by January 31st of each year shall be assessed a fee of $25.00 in addition to any other charges due for such license.

NEW! Dog license may now be paid for on-line if you have a rabies certificate with a vaccine (expiration date of March 12, 2010 or later) on file with the Town Clerk's Office.  Payments on-line can be paid from your checking account or with a credit card (Master Card or Discover).  There is no charge to pay directly from your checking account, a nominal fee will apply to credit card transactions.

Contact the Town Clerk's Office via e-mail townclerk@lexingtonma.gov or telephone 781-862-0500 ext 270 with any questions.

Dog License Application

Dog License On-Line Payment