For pet owners in Edmonton, obtaining a license for a dog or cat is not just a recommendation, but a mandatory legal requirement. The registration process may seem complicated to those encountering it for the first time, especially newcomers to Canada, but the city has taken significant steps to simplify the procedure and make it accessible through several convenient channels. Understanding how to properly register your pet, what documents are required, how much it costs, and what benefits you receive will help you quickly and efficiently fulfill this requirement while providing additional protection for your beloved companion.
Why licensing is mandatory
Before delving into the details of the registration process, it is important to understand the legal basis for this requirement. According to the City of Edmonton's Animal Licensing and Control Bylaw, all dogs and cats six months of age and older must have a valid license. This rule applies regardless of whether your pet goes outside or lives exclusively indoors. Even if your cat never leaves your apartment, the law still requires it to be registered.
Failure to comply with this requirement can have serious consequences. The city has the right to fine owners up to $250 for not having a valid pet license. This far exceeds the cost of the license itself, especially for spayed or neutered animals, making ignoring this requirement a very bad financial decision. In addition, if your unlicensed animal is picked up by animal control, you will have to pay shelter and care fees in addition to the fine for not having a license.
In August 2025, the Edmonton City Council approved the first update to this bylaw in twenty years. The new rules will take effect on May 19, 2026, after a period of education and implementation. While the basic licensing requirements remain unchanged, the update brings important changes that will make the system fairer and more effective for all city residents.
Preparing for registration: what you will need
Before you begin the registration process, it is helpful to gather all the necessary information and documents. While some information is mandatory, other information helps facilitate the identification of your pet and reunification with it in case of loss, but is not strictly required.
Owner information
You must be at least 18 years old to register. The system will ask for your personal information, including your full first and last name, Edmonton address (it is important to note that licensing is only for residents within the city limits), primary phone number, and email address. If you live in neighboring municipalities such as Sherwood Park, St. Albert, or Spruce Grove, you will need to check the local pet licensing regulations in your jurisdiction.
The system also allows you to add information about a co-owner and up to two emergency contacts. This additional information can be extremely valuable if your pet goes missing while you are out of town or unavailable for other reasons. When choosing emergency contacts, make sure they are reliable people who live nearby, know your pet, and are willing to help if needed.
Information about your pet
You will need to provide basic identification information about your pet. Required fields include the pet's name, gender (male or female), type of animal (dog or cat), and approximate date of birth. If you do not know your pet's exact date of birth, which is often the case with rescue animals or those that have been found, an approximate date is perfectly acceptable.
You will also need to provide your pet's primary breed, primary color, and primary distinguishing features. If your pet is a mixed breed, you can provide secondary breeds and additional colors. This descriptive information helps identify your pet if it gets lost and ends up at the Animal Care & Control Center.
Spay/Neuter Information
A critical part of the registration process is information about your pet's spay/neuter status. This isn't just for the record—spay/neuter status directly affects the cost of your license. Spayed or neutered animals cost significantly less to license, as the city encourages responsible pet ownership and population control.
If your pet is spayed or neutered, it is helpful to have the date of the surgery and the name of the veterinary clinic where it was performed on hand. While this information is not always strictly required, it helps animal control services verify sterilization status if a question arises. Some owners have reported having to provide proof of sterilization, so keeping veterinary records of the procedure can prevent potential problems in the future.
It is important to note that the city takes the accuracy of this information seriously. The bylaw contains a warning that providing false information, including falsely declaring an animal to be spayed or neutered in order to receive a discount, is a violation of the law under Section 33 of the Animal Licensing and Control Bylaw. This could result in additional fines and legal consequences.
Microchip or tattoo information
If your animal has a microchip or tattoo, the system will ask for this identification number. A microchip is a small identification capsule, no larger than a grain of rice, that is implanted under the animal's skin between the shoulder blades. When scanned at a veterinary clinic, shelter, or animal control center, it displays a unique identification number linked to the owner's information.
The great news is that if your pet does not already have a microchip, every pet license purchased in Edmonton includes a free microchip. This is a significant savings, as microchipping at a veterinary clinic typically costs between $50 and over $200, depending on the clinic. Owners can make an appointment at the Animal Care & Control Centre to have their licensed pet microchipped, and the procedure is quick and relatively painless, similar to a routine vaccination.
Payment method
You will need a valid payment method to complete your registration. If you are registering online, you will need a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express). The city also accepts debit cards (Interac) for online payments. It is important to note that some owners have reported problems with prepaid cards during online registration, so it is best to use a standard credit or debit card.
If you are applying by mail, payment must be in the form of a check made payable to “The City of Edmonton.” The city does not accept post-dated checks. For those registering in person at the Animal Care & Control Centre, cash, personal and corporate checks, money orders, bank debit cards, and major credit cards are accepted.
Registration options: choose the method that works best for you
Edmonton offers several options for registering your pet, each designed for different needs and preferences. Understanding the advantages and limitations of each method will help you choose the one that best suits your situation.
Online registration: the most convenient option
The most popular and convenient way to license your pet is to use the city's online self-service tool. You can access the system in two ways: through eServices.edmonton.ca or directly through the dedicated portal edmonton.ca/licenseyourpet. Both addresses lead to the same system, so you can use whichever one you prefer.
The online system is available 24/7, which means you can apply for a new license, renew an existing one, or update your pet's information at any time that is convenient for you. This is especially useful for busy people who work regular business hours or for those who do not have easy access to transportation to visit the animal control center in person.
The online registration process is intuitive and guides you step by step through all the required fields. The system clearly marks mandatory fields with an asterisk, so you always know which information is critical for processing your application. You can also save your progress and return later if you need to gather additional information.
Once you have completed the online process and paid, your pet tags will be mailed to your registered address. This usually takes about a week from the date your payment is processed. These tags are round metal tags with your pet's license number and the city's phone number (311) to call if someone finds your lost pet.
It is important to note that some owners have reported technical issues with the online system. If you encounter difficulties during payment processing or if the system does not accept your card, do not delay registration. Instead, try using a different browser (some users have reported problems with Safari, so Google Chrome may work better), or consider registering in person or by mail.
In-person registration: for special situations
While online registration is convenient for most people, some situations require or are better suited for in-person application. You can visit the Animal Care & Control Centre at 13550 163 Street in Edmonton. The centre is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The centre is closed on Sundays and statutory holidays.
Some situations require in-person application instead of using the online system. If you are applying for a reduced rate because you receive income assistance from a recognized government program, you must come in person with documentation confirming your eligibility. This usually includes proof of receiving assistance from Alberta Works, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), or similar programs.
Owners of restricted dogs, as defined in the bylaw (dogs that have a history of attacks or are classified as dangerous), must also apply in person. This allows city staff to review the dog's history, discuss any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply, and ensure that the owner fully understands their responsibilities.
Similarly, if you are applying for a license fee waiver for a guide dog or service dog, this process must be completed in person with the appropriate certification documents. Owners must provide certification documentation showing that the dog has been trained by an Assistance Dogs International accredited organization, a school that meets the standards of the International Guide Dog Federation, or has successfully passed testing through an approved Alberta testing facility. As of August 2018, handlers must also have an identification card provided through the Alberta government's Service Dog ID Card Program.
Even if your situation does not require an in-person visit, some people simply prefer face-to-face interaction. The Animal Care & Control Centre staff can answer questions in real time, help you fill out forms if you are unsure about any information, and immediately provide your pet tag if it is already available. This is especially helpful for newcomers to Canada who may not be familiar with the system or feel more confident talking to a person directly.
The centre is also a one-stop shop for other pet-related services, including adoption, stray animal care, free microchip appointments, and reporting lost or found animals. If you have several pet-related issues to resolve, a personal visit may be the most efficient use of your time.
Mail-in registration: for those who prefer the traditional method
For those who are unable to conveniently use online services or visit the center in person, the city continues to accept license applications by mail. This method may be particularly helpful for seniors who may not have access to the internet or feel more comfortable with paper forms, or for people with limited mobility who have difficulty getting to the animal control center.
To apply by mail, you must first download the pet licensing application form from the city's website. If you do not have access to the internet to download the form, you can call 311 (or 780-442-5311 if calling from outside Edmonton) to request that they mail you a paper form.
Once you receive the form, fill it out carefully, making sure all required information is provided and legible. Pay special attention to the accuracy of your address, as this is where your pet tags will be sent after your application is processed. Once you have completed the form, enclose a check made payable to “The City of Edmonton” for the appropriate license fee. As noted earlier, credit card payments can only be made online or in person, so payments by mail must be in the form of a check.
You can send your completed application and payment to one of two addresses. The main address is Animal Care & Control Centre, 13550 - 163 Street, Edmonton, AB T5V 0B2. Alternatively, you can send it to Sustainable Development, 5th Floor, 10250 - 101 Street, Edmonton, AB T5J 3P4. Both addresses process licensing applications, so choose the one that is more convenient for you.
Please note that processing mail-in applications usually takes longer than online submissions because the physical document must arrive, be scanned into the system, and the payment must be processed manually. Plus, there is additional time for your tokens to be sent back to you. Plan on at least two to three weeks for the entire process, possibly longer during peak registration periods.
Understanding the fee structure
One of the most important parts of the registration process is understanding how much you will have to pay. Edmonton uses a tiered fee structure that encourages responsible pet ownership through significantly lower fees for spayed and neutered animals.
Standard Licensing Fees
As of 2026, the base licensing fees in Edmonton are $37 per year for a spayed or neutered dog and $77 for an unspayed or unneutered dog. For cats, the prices are $22 for a spayed cat and $77 for an unspayed cat. As you can see, the price difference between spayed and unspayed animals is significant—over 300 percent for cats and over 100 percent for dogs.
This price difference is not arbitrary or intended simply to increase revenue. The city deliberately sets lower rates for spayed and neutered animals as a way to encourage population control and reduce unwanted litters. Every year, thousands of kittens and puppies are born due to unplanned breeding, and many of them end up in shelters or become homeless. By providing a financial incentive for sterilization, the city is trying to reduce these numbers and create a more manageable pet population.
Different rates apply to dogs with special status. A dog classified as a “Nuisance Dog” due to a history of behavioral problems, such as excessive barking that causes complaints from neighbors or repeated wandering, requires a $100 annual license. Restricted dogs that meet certain criteria and have been designated under a bylaw (usually dogs with a history of attacks or aggressive behavior) must have a license for $250 per year.
These increased fees reflect the additional administrative attention, monitoring, and potential risks associated with such animals. Owners of nuisance and restricted dogs may also be subject to additional requirements, such as mandatory training, liability insurance, or restrictions on where the dog can be kept.
Future Rate Increases
When planning your budget, it is important to know that licensing rates will gradually increase in the coming years. The city has announced that rates will increase by $1 per year for the next three years, starting in 2026. This means that a spayed or neutered dog that costs $37 in 2026 will cost $38 in 2027, $39 in 2028, and $40 in 2029. Similar gradual increases will apply to all licensing categories.
This is the first increase in licensing fees in five years and is intended to cover the financial pressure on the city's ability to care for animals in Edmonton. The additional revenue will help pay for increased costs for peace officers who patrol neighborhoods and investigate animal cruelty complaints, medical care for the thousands of animals that pass through the Animal Care & Control Centre each year, dispatch services that handle calls about lost and found animals, and the legal support necessary to properly enforce animal protection laws.
While no one likes to see rates increase, it is important to understand that even after these increases, the cost of licensing remains relatively modest, especially when compared to other pet ownership expenses such as food, veterinary care, and grooming. Moreover, the benefits provided by licensing—particularly the increased likelihood of reuniting with a lost animal and the free microchip—provide significant value that far outweighs the small increase in cost.
Discounts for Vulnerable Populations
Edmonton recognizes that not all residents have the same financial capacity and has implemented several programs to support pet ownership for low-income and senior citizens. Owners who receive income assistance from a recognized government program are eligible for a 50% discount on the licensing fee. Previously, this discount applied to only one spayed or neutered dog or cat per household, but updated bylaw amendments, effective in 2026, expand these subsidies to include discounts on all pets in the household.
This is an important change that recognizes that low-income individuals often receive tremendous emotional support from their animal companions, and financial barriers should not force them to choose between keeping their pets and complying with licensing laws. To receive this discount, you must apply in person at the Animal Care & Control Centre with documentation confirming your eligibility, such as a letter of approval from Alberta Works, AISH, or another recognized income assistance program.
The city also offers an incentive for pet sterilization by waiving the first-year licensing fees for any dog or cat that has been sterilized. This incentive helps offset the cost of sterilization, which can range from $120 to $220 for cats and more for dogs. By providing a free first-year license, the city effectively reduces the overall cost of spaying or neutering, encouraging more owners to make this responsible choice.
In addition, the updated ordinance waives licensing fees for local nonprofit animal organizations to support the work of adoption-focused rescue organizations in the community. This helps these organizations stretch their limited resources and continue their important work of rescuing and rehoming homeless animals.
Exemptions for service dogs
Owners of guide dogs and service dogs are completely exempt from licensing fees in Edmonton. Under Alberta's Service Dogs Act, these animals are not considered pets in the traditional sense, but rather medical aids for people with disabilities. Service dogs have full access rights and cannot be discriminated against, including requirements to pay for licensing. However, it is important to note that exemption from fees does not mean exemption from licensing. Service dog owners must still register their animal with the city and obtain a free license. They must also comply with all other regulations, such as controlling excessive barking, using a leash in appropriate situations, and cleaning up waste.To obtain the fee exemption, owners must provide documentation showing that their dog is a legitimate service dog trained by a recognized agency to assist people with special needs. This usually includes a training certificate from an accredited organization and a service dog identification card provided through the Alberta government program.It is important to distinguish between service dogs and emotional support animals. Emotional support animals are not automatically recognized under Alberta's Service Dogs Act and do not have the same access rights or licensing exemptions. While emotional support animals provide comfort and emotional benefits, they are not trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability, which is a key distinction in the legislation.## What happens after you applyOnce you have completed the registration process and made your payment, it is important to understand what to expect next and how to ensure that your license remains valid.### Receiving your pet tagsIf you applied online or by mail, your pet tags will be mailed to your registered address. This usually takes about a week from the date your payment is processed, although during peak registration periods it may take a little longer. Tags are round metal tags with your pet's unique license number and the city's phone number (311) to call if someone finds your lost pet.If you applied in person at the Animal Care & Control Center, in some cases you may receive your tag immediately, depending on availability. However, tags are more often mailed even for in-person applications to ensure that all paperwork is properly processed in the system.
Some owners have reported issues when the city's system was unable to properly process payments or when tags did not arrive within a reasonable time frame. If it has been more than two weeks since you submitted your application and you have not received your tags, it is recommended that you check your credit card statement or bank account to ensure that the payment was processed. If the payment was charged but you still haven't received your tokens, contact 311 to check the status of your application.
Attaching tags to your pet's collar
Once you receive your tags, attach them to your pet's collar immediately. The tag only works when your pet is actually wearing it, so keeping it in a drawer at home provides no protection if your pet gets lost. For dogs, this is usually easy—most dogs wear collars at all times or at least when they go outside.
For cats, attaching tags may require a little more attention. Some cat owners worry that collars may pose a strangulation hazard, especially for cats that climb trees or explore tight spaces. If this is a concern, consider using a safety breakaway collar designed to release under pressure but still secure enough to hold tags during normal activity.
It is important to understand that even indoor cats must wear their license tags. Accidents happen—doors are left open during package deliveries, screens break, cats escape during moves or emergencies. When an indoor cat ends up outside, it is often particularly disoriented and frightened, making quick identification even more important.
Appointment for free microchip installation
If your pet does not already have a microchip, one of the biggest benefits of licensing is that it includes free microchip installation. Once you have completed your registration, you can call the Animal Care & Control Center at 311 to make an appointment for microchip installation.
The procedure is quick and relatively painless for your pet, similar to a routine vaccination. The microchip is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a sterile needle. Most animals barely react—some don't even notice it. There is no recovery time, and your pet can continue its normal day immediately after the procedure.
The city has been running pilot programs since 2018 to increase microchip adoption, offering free installation with the purchase of a pet license. This program has been so successful in increasing identification and reunification rates that the free microchip has become a standard part of the licensing package.
Keeping your information up to date
Obtaining a license and microchip is only the first step. For these identification tools to be effective, you must keep your contact information up to date. If you move, change phone numbers, or update your email address, update your information immediately through the city's online licensing system.
This is critical because when someone finds your lost pet and calls 311, the city's system looks up your contact information using the license number on the tag or the microchip number obtained when scanned. If the information is out of date, staff will not be able to contact you, and your pet may spend days in a shelter waiting for you to find it, instead of being quickly returned home.
Similarly, if your pet has a microchip, make sure the information in the microchip database is also up to date. It is important to understand that updating your city license information does not automatically update the microchip database—these are separate systems. Take the time to update both to maximize your chances of reunion if your pet goes missing.
Renewing your license
Pet licenses are valid for twelve months from the date of issue, after which they must be renewed. The city now also offers a two-year license renewal option, allowing owners to choose either a one-year or two-year license when renewing. This flexibility may be convenient for those who want less hassle with annual renewals and are willing to pay for two years up front.
Receiving renewal notices
Licensed pet owners typically receive a renewal notice in the mail when their license is about to expire. This notice will include your five-digit account number (which is different from the number on your animal's tag), the expiration date, the amount due, and instructions on how to renew.
However, it is important not to rely solely on these notices. Some owners have reported issues where renewal notices did not arrive or were sent to an outdated address if the owner had recently moved and not updated their information. Therefore, it is recommended that you set your own reminder in your calendar or smartphone one month before your license expires to ensure timely renewal.
Renewal methods
Renewing your license is as easy as the initial registration, with several convenient options available. The easiest method is to renew online through the same system you used for your initial registration: eServices.edmonton.ca or edmonton.ca/licenseyourpet. The system will allow you to log in with your account number from your renewal notice and renew your license in a matter of minutes.
You can also renew in person at the Animal Care & Control Centre or by mailing a check along with your renewal notice. Interestingly, Edmonton also offers renewal through online banking for those who prefer this method. Using your bank's bill payment system, you can add the City of Edmonton as a payee using your five-digit account number from your renewal notice (again, not the number on your pet's tag).
Some financial institutions may not accept pet license renewal payments through their systems, so if you can't find the City of Edmonton as an option in your online banking, you'll need to use one of the other renewal methods.
What to do if you are late with your renewal
Life gets busy, and sometimes license renewals can fall by the wayside. If your license has expired, it is important to renew it as soon as possible. Technically, your animal is considered unlicensed from the moment it expires, which means you could be subject to a $250 fine if an animal control officer discovers the violation.
In practice, the city typically focuses on education and encouraging compliance rather than punitive fines for owners who are simply a few weeks or months late in renewing. However, if your animal is lost and picked up by animal control while your license is expired, you lose the benefits of licensing, such as a free ride home and priority reunification. Your animal may still be identifiable through outdated license information, but staff may not be able to return it to you immediately without a valid license.
When you renew an expired license, you are typically asked to pay for the current year. The city does not charge retroactive fees for past years when your license was expired, although they may do so if the situation falls under official enforcement.
One-time tags vs. annual renewals
One common question owners have is whether they receive a new tag each year when they renew their license. The answer is no. The tag you receive when you first register is permanent and is intended to be used for the entire life of your pet. When you renew your license, you are simply extending the validity of the license number that is already on your pet's tag.
This means it is important to take care of the tag and not lose it. If the tag is lost, damaged, or becomes illegible, you can order a replacement tag from the city for $15. Replacement tags can be ordered online, in person, or by calling 311.
What to do if your pet is lost
Even with the best license and microchip, pets sometimes get lost. When this happens, quick action and knowing the right steps to take can make the difference between a quick reunion and a long separation.
Immediate Action
First, start searching your immediate surroundings immediately. Many pets don't stray very far and tend to stay close to home, especially if they are frightened or disoriented. Walk around your neighborhood, ask neighbors if they have seen your pet, and check potential hiding places such as garages, sheds, under porches, and in bushes.
For cats, look especially in the direction of the wind, as frightened cats often hide and move toward familiar voices rather than coming when called. For dogs, think about the walking routes you usually take and places your dog knows and loves.
Notifying the City
If you cannot find your pet in the neighborhood, call 311 (or 780-442-5311 if calling from outside Edmonton) immediately to report your lost pet. Staff will enter your pet's information into the system and check to see if any animals matching the description have been picked up and brought to the Animal Care & Control Centre.
The city maintains an online database of animals currently in their care, which you can search at any time. The database includes photos so that pet owners can better identify their animals. You can access this database at edmontonacccpets.shelterbuddy.com/search/. Check this database regularly, as it is updated when new animals arrive at the center.
Using social media and lost pet groups
Edmonton has several active social media groups dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their owners. Post information about your lost pet in these groups as soon as possible, including clear photos, a detailed description, the location where the pet went missing, the date and time you last saw it, and your contact information.
The main Facebook groups for lost pets in Edmonton include Edmonton Lost Pets, Edmonton & Area Lost Pets, and Edmonton Lost & Found Pets. There is also a city-wide Lost & Found Pets page where you can post information. These groups have thousands of active members who constantly monitor posts and can quickly spread the word about your lost pet throughout the city.
Physical Search
While digital tools are valuable, don't forget about traditional search methods. Create simple flyers with a clear photo of your pet, a description, your contact information, and the words “LOST” in large, bold text at the top. Post these flyers in the area where your pet went missing, especially at intersections, near stores, and on public bulletin boards.
Bring photos of your pet and copies of your flyer to local veterinary clinics, pet stores, animal shelters, and rescue organizations in your area. The staff at these establishments can keep an eye out for animals that match your pet's description when they come in or when people call with questions about found animals.
If your licensed pet is found
If someone finds your licensed animal with an Edmonton city tag on its collar, the reunification process is usually quick and easy. The finder can call the 311 number on the tag and provide the license number. City staff will immediately access your contact information from the licensing database and contact you.
In many cases, animal control officers can arrange for direct reunification, returning your pet directly to you without having to bring it to the Animal Care & Control Centre. Keep in mind that your license includes one free trip home each year, so there is no charge for this service.
Even if your animal is brought to the ACCC, staff will attempt to contact you immediately using the information on your license and microchip. Approximately 85 percent of dogs that come to the ACCC are returned to their owners, largely due to licensing and identification. Unfortunately, only about 16 percent of the 4,000 cats that come in each year find their way home, partly because cats are licensed less often than dogs and are less likely to wear collars with tags.
Special circumstances and exceptions
While most registration processes are straightforward, some situations require special attention or have special rules.
Moving to Edmonton from another city
If you are moving to Edmonton from another Canadian city or from another country and already have a pet license from your previous place of residence, you will still need to obtain a license from the City of Edmonton. Pet licenses are not transferable between municipalities, as each city maintains its own database and system.
The good news is that if your pet already has a microchip from your previous place of residence, you do not need to have a new microchip implanted. Microchips are universal and can be read by any standard scanner in Canada and most other countries. However, make sure you update your contact information in the microchip database to reflect your new address in Edmonton.
Multiple animals in one household
If you have multiple dogs or cats, you need to obtain a separate license for each animal six months of age and older. The application form allows you to add multiple animals to a single account, which simplifies management. When applying online, you can add additional animals to your account after entering the information for the first animal.
Edmonton has restrictions on the number of animals you can keep in a residential unit. The current limit is three dogs and six cats per household. An updated bylaw, which will come into effect in 2026, also sets a new limit of four rabbits per household and introduces new licensing categories for bees and chickens.
These limits are designed to ensure that owners can properly care for their animals and to prevent situations of overcrowding that can lead to animal welfare issues and nuisances for neighbors. If you want to keep more animals than these limits allow, you will need to apply to the city for a special permit.
Young animals under six months of age
The licensing requirement applies only to dogs and cats six months of age and older. Licensing is not mandatory for younger animals. However, the city offers optional licenses for puppies and kittens under six months of age.
Although not required, early licensing can be beneficial for several reasons. First, it provides identification if a young animal gets lost, which can be especially important for energetic puppies that may escape from yards or kittens that may squeeze through small openings. Second, it helps owners develop the habit of keeping their registration current from the outset. Finally, if you plan to spay or neuter your animal before it reaches six months of age, you can take advantage of the first-year licensing fee exemption for spayed or neutered animals.
Temporary residents and students
If you are temporarily residing in Edmonton as a student or on a work contract, you may still be subject to the licensing requirement if you live within the city limits and have a pet six months of age or older. The law does not make exceptions based on permanent residency status—if you are actually living in Edmonton with your pet, you need a license.
For international students or temporary workers, this means that even if you plan to return to your home country after completing your studies or work, you still need to license your pet while living in Edmonton. The good news is that the cost is modest (especially for spayed or neutered animals), and the benefits — especially the increased likelihood of reunion if your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar city — are well worth the small investment.
Common questions and mistakes
Based on the experiences of many pet owners in Edmonton, here are some common questions and mistakes to avoid during the registration process.
“My cat never goes outside, so I don't need a license.”
This is perhaps the most common misconception about pet licensing in Edmonton. The truth is that the law clearly requires all cats six months of age and older to be licensed, regardless of whether they live exclusively indoors. Even if your cat never crosses the threshold of your home, the law still requires it to be licensed.
The reason for this requirement is that even indoor cats sometimes escape. Doors are left open during package deliveries, screens break, cats slip between people's legs as they enter or exit. During moves, emergencies, or natural disasters, the likelihood of escape is even higher. When an indoor cat is outside for the first time, it is often disoriented and frightened, making identification critical for a quick reunion.
“I just got my pet last week, so I have time to license it.”
Although the bylaw does not set a specific time limit for licensing a new animal, it is best practice to register as soon as possible after acquiring an animal. Animals can get lost at any time, and the sooner you register them, the sooner they will be protected by the city's identification system.
If you have just adopted an animal from the Edmonton Humane Society or a local rescue organization, your animal may already have a microchip installed by the organization. However, you still need to obtain a city license and ensure that the microchip information is updated with your contact details. Many rescue organizations even remind new owners of the need for licensing and provide instructions on how to do so.
“I can't afford a license right now”
If the cost of licensing is a financial burden, don't let that stop you from registering your pet. As discussed earlier, the city offers a 50% discount for owners who receive income assistance from a recognized government program. After the bylaw is updated in 2026, this discount will apply to all animals in your household, not just one.
In addition, if your pet has not yet been spayed or neutered, the Edmonton Humane Society offers the Prevent Another Litter Subsidy (PALS) program, which provides subsidized spaying and neutering for low-income individuals. Once your animal is spayed or neutered through this program, the licensing fee is significantly reduced ($22 for cats, $37 for dogs, compared to $77 for unspayed/unneutered animals), and you receive a waiver of the first-year licensing fees.
“The number on the tag is my renewal account number”
This is a common misconception that can lead to confusion when renewing your license. The number engraved on your pet's tag is the license number — a unique identifier for your pet in the city's system. However, it is not the same number you use to renew your license online or through online banking.
To renew, you need your five-digit account number, which appears on your renewal notice. This account number is linked to your information as the owner and may cover multiple animals if you have more than one registered animal. If you cannot find your account number, call 311 and the staff can help you obtain it.
“A microchip and a license are the same thing”
Although both microchips and licenses are forms of identification, they serve different purposes and operate in different systems. An Edmonton city license is a legal requirement that links your animal to you in the municipal database and provides a visible tag that anyone can see on your animal's collar. This tag includes the 311 phone number to call, making it an instant and easily accessible form of identification.
A microchip, on the other hand, is a permanent form of identification that stays with your pet for their entire life, even if they lose their collar or tag. Microchips must be read with a special scanner available at veterinary clinics, shelters, and animal control centers. The microchip contains a unique identification number linked to a national or international database that is separate from the city's licensing database.
Ideally, your pet should have both: a visible license tag on their collar for quick identification and a microchip as a permanent backup in case the collar is lost. The great news is that when you get a license in Edmonton, you also get a free microchip installation, giving you both layers of protection.
Conclusion: A simple process with great value
Obtaining a dog or cat license in Edmonton is a straightforward process that provides significant benefits for both individual pet owners and the community as a whole. Whether you choose the convenience of online registration, in-person assistance at the Animal Care & Control Centre, or the traditional mail-in method, the city has made the process as accessible as possible for all residents.
The key steps are easy to remember: gather the necessary information about yourself and your pet, including sterilization status and any existing microchip or tattoo numbers; choose your preferred registration method; complete the application with accurate information; pay the appropriate fee using your chosen payment method; wait for your tags to arrive in the mail (approximately one week for online and mail-in applications); immediately attach the tag to your pet's collar; sign up for a free microchip installation if your pet does not already have a microchip; and keep your contact information up to date throughout your pet's life.
Licensing costs are modest, especially for spayed or neutered animals, and provide tremendous value. For $22 per year for a spayed or neutered cat or $37 for a spayed or neutered dog, you get legal compliance, dramatically increased chances of reunion if your pet gets lost, one free trip home each year, a free microchip (worth up to $200 at veterinary clinics), and the knowledge that your fees support vital animal protection services in the community.
For newcomers to Edmonton, especially those who have moved from Ukraine or other countries where pet licensing may not exist or work differently, registering your pet should be one of the first tasks on your settling-in checklist. Along with getting an Alberta Health Card, opening a bank account, and registering your children for school, licensing your pet is a fundamental part of settling into your new life in the city and ensuring that your beloved companion is protected in your new home.
Remember, licensing isn't just about following the law or avoiding fines. It's about being a responsible member of the community, protecting your pet, and contributing to a system that supports the well-being of all animals in Edmonton. With updated bylaw amendments coming into effect in 2026, the city continues to refine and improve its approach to animal management, making Edmonton a safer and more humane place for all pets and their owners.
If you have any questions during the registration process or need assistance, don't hesitate to call 311 (or 780-442-5311 from outside Edmonton). City staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to help you through the process and answer any questions you may have. With the right information and a few minutes of your time, your pet will be properly registered and protected, giving you peace of mind and your pet the best chance of a quick reunion if they ever get lost.