Kennel & Dog License Information
Kennel Licenses
Kennel Licenses are required for anyone who owns four or more dogs.
- All kennel licenses are required to pass inspection by the Animal Control Officer BEFORE a license is granted (M.G.L Ch. 140 Section 137A and 137C). The applicant is responsible to schedule all appointments with the Animal Control Officer.
- Due to new State and Town regulations, if you own a business that works with dogs, you may be required to purchase a kennel license. Please contact the Animal Control Officer to inquire about these new regulations.
- An application for a kennel license can be picked up at the Town Clerk’s Office or downloaded below.
- $35.00 for 4 dogs
- $60.00 for 5 to 10 dogs
- $125.00 for 11+ dogs.
Dog Licensing Information
Legal Obligation
All dogs 6 months or older must be licensed. In order to obtain a license, a copy of a valid/current rabies vaccine must be provided or on file according to Mass General Law Chapter 140 Section 137 and Town of Sharon By-Law Chapter 116-5. The license MUST be worn on the dog.
Cost
- Intact Dog: $20.00
- Spayed or Neutered Dog: $15.00
If this is your first time registering your dog as spayed or neutered you must provide proof of the procedure during registration.
Deadline
Dog licenses are valid from January 1st to December 31st of each year and must be renewed for each year. The deadline for renewing a dog license is January 31st. There is a grace period where you can pay without penalty until May 31st. Licenses may be obtained throughout the year through the Town Clerk's Office.
Late Fee and Penalties
- A dog licensed after May 31st will be subject to a $50.00 late fee, per dog (this is in addition to the initial registration fee)
- A dog licensed after June 30th will be subject to a $50.00 noncriminal disposition fee, per dog (this is in addition to the initial registration fee and the $50.00 late fee)
Acquiring New Dogs
A newly acquired dog that is 6 months or older must be licensed within 30 days. If under 6 months old, the owner has until the animal reaches 6 months in age to license
Foster Dogs
Foster dogs must be licensed by the foster care giver if the foster parent has the dog for 30 days or more
Moving with Dogs
All Massachusetts residents who move to or temporarily reside in another Massachusetts city or town are required to transfer or obtain a license in the new city or town if residence in that location will be longer than 30 days.
Loss of Dog & Custody Change of Dogs
If your dog passes away, if you move out of Sharon, or if a dog that you owned changes ownership, please notify the Town Clerk's Office at 781-784-1500 x1201. They will update their records to ensure you do not get contacted about license renewals for this animal and to avoid citations being issued for non-renewal of a license for this animal.
Impoundment
A current license is required before a dog can be released from impoundment. If the dog is not licensed the owner of the impounded animal will pay failure to license penalties, in addition to kennel charges and handling and pick up fees. All fees must be paid before animal can be released from impoundment.
How to License