Animal Control & Licences

City parks and public spaces are regularly patrolled by Animal Control Services to ensure all dogs, and dog owners, are are acting responsibly so everyone can enjoy public spaces. Animal Control Services has been contracted by to enforce the City's Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 7316.

Dog Licences

All dogs over the age of four months are required to have a valid dog licence in the City of Nanaimo.

Did you know? 100% of the fees collected from dog licensing go towards the costs of operating the Nanaimo Animal Shelter, including care and adoption.

Why license your dog?

  • It is the most effective way to reunite lost dogs with the owners.
  • It is a mandatory requirement for all dogs over the age of four (4) months. Owners can be ticketed $50/day for non-compliance.
  • With a valid dog licence, owners avoid additional penalties if the dog is impounded.
  • It encourages owner accountability. Licence tags must be worn on a collar when the dog is in a public space or on private property other than where the dog is normally kept.
  • Licence fees help offset the costs of operating an animal control and pound service, which shelters, feeds, and provides care for lost animals.

How to license your dog

You can apply for a Dog Licence online: Apply for a New Dog Licence

Or in person at the following locations:

Animal Control Services

1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road

Hours: Monday to Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Saturday - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Except Statutory Holidays)

City of Nanaimo - Service and Resource Centre

411 Dunsmuir Street

Hours: Monday to Friday - 8:00 am to 4:30 pm (Except Statutory Holidays)

If you do not live within the the City of Nanaimo's limits you do not require a valid licence for your dog(s) with the City of Nanaimo.  Please check with the municipality that you reside in to see if one is to be purchased through them.

Dog Licence Information

  • Dog Licence Fees

  • Dog Licence - What is required

  • Dog Licence Renewal - Info and ways of payment

  • Found a Dog on the loose? What to do

  • Dog Tags and Replacement Tags

  • Service Dogs within the City of Nanaimo

  • Dangerous or Breed Specific Legislation

Contact Us

Dog Licencing 250-755-4525
dog.lic@nanaimo.ca

Last updated: March 14, 2023

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