Dog License Information
Which dogs need to be licensed?
State of New Hampshire RSA 466:1 requires that every owner or keeper of a dog four months old or older shall annually cause it to be registered, numbered, described, and licensed for one year in the city or town in which the dog is kept. Regardless of when the license is obtained, the license shall be effective from May 1st of each year to April 30th of the subsequent year.
What do I need to license my dog?
State law requires that before a license is issued, the owner or keeper of a dog must furnish proof to the town or city clerk that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. In addition, if the dog has been spayed or neutered, the owner or keeper needs to furnish the town or city with the proper documentation.
How much does it cost?
- Puppy (ages 4-7 months) $7.50
- Neutered or spayed dogs $7.50
- Unaltered male of female dog $10.00
- Senior citizen dog $3.00 (owner who is 65 years old or older on the first dog only)
How do I license my dog?
You can licenseyour dog in person at the Town Clerk's Office, or you can renew your dog license online providing the rabies is up to date.
What happens if I don't license my dog?
Failure to license your dog is a violation of State law. In addition to the annual license fee you will be charged a late fee of $1.00 per month, per dog for each month (or part of month) starting June 1. Between June 1st and June 20, the Town Clerks Office will forward a list of those owners or keepers of dogs that have not been licensed to the Select Board per state law RSA 466:1. A Dog Warrant will be signed and a civil forfeiture fee will be assessed in the amount of $25.00, plus a $7 service fee. The civil forfeiture will be sent certified mail and payable within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the notice of failure to license your dog(s). If the forfeiture fee is not paid within that time, a summons to appear in court shall be issued in accordance with State law requirements.
I no longer have a dog, what should I do?
Contact the KingstonTown Clerk's Office at 603-642-3112 X 2 or
email us at townclerk@kingstonnh.org. We will then update your record so that you do not receive any future notices.
