Merritt dog licences: fees and how to get one

How do I get a dog licence in Merritt, and what does it cost?

Merritt, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-05

How it works

Under the City of Merritt's Animal Control Bylaw 2241, no one may keep a dog over three months old in the City unless it has a City licence and the fee is paid. The City's dog licence page says six months instead. The bylaw is the legal rule, so licence a dog from three months and confirm with City Hall if you are unsure.

Steps

1. Go to City Hall at 2185 Voght Street. The City's page names City Hall only and does not mention an online or mail option.
2. If you are registering a dog for the first time, bring a veterinarian's certificate showing whether the dog is spayed or neutered.
3. Pay the fee: $24 if spayed or neutered, $80 if not (2026 rates).
4. Fasten the tag to a collar or harness the dog wears at all times, except when the dog is penned or enclosed on your own land or premises.

Good to know

• Renewal: the bylaw says renew no later than 365 days after the licence was issued. The City's page says licences are valid for the calendar year and that a new tag comes with every renewal. Ask City Hall which date applies to you.
• A licence and tag cannot be moved to another dog, and licence fees are not refundable.
• If you move within Merritt, tell the City promptly.
• A lost tag costs $11.50 to replace.
• A registered assistance dog for a person who is blind or disabled gets a licence and tag free, with documentation shown at City Hall.
• Aggressive and dangerous dogs cost more and have extra rules. See the answer on dangerous dogs.
• The City's fee schedule lists no senior, early-payment or late fees.
• Failing to licence a dog is a $200 bylaw notice ($150 if paid within 14 days, $250 after 28 days). Failing to renew is $100 ($75 within 14 days, $125 after 28 days).