The ID your dog can’t leave home without: Summit County’s licensing rules

All dogs over the age of four months must be licensed and wear their license and rabies tags at all times, in accordance with Summit County codes 5-1-5 and 5-1-6. Licenses are required for any dog residing in the county for 30 consecutive days or more. Photo: Summit County

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Did you know that your furry friend needs proper ID in Summit County? Summit County Animal Control is educating residents about crucial pet licensing requirements that many dog owners might not realize.

All dogs over four months old must be licensed after just 30 days in the county

This little-known regulation falls under codes 5-1-5 and 5-1-6, which require not only licensing but also the proper display of tags.

Here’s something interesting: Your dog must wear both license and rabies tags attached to their collar at all times — not just during walks or public outings. Lost your pet’s tag? You can replace it for $5 as long as the license remains valid.

There’s a significant financial incentive to spay or neuter your pet

Annual licensing fees are $12 for sterilized dogs — a full 67% discount compared to the $36 fee for unsterilized dogs. For the savvy pet owner, three-year licenses are available at $20 for sterilized dogs and $50 for unsterilized dogs, perfectly timed to coincide with standard rabies vaccination schedules.

The entire licensing process can be done online

Owners can license their pets on their website. Most importantly, these requirements aren’t just bureaucratic red tape. Animal Control officials emphasize that proper licensing significantly increases the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners while supporting public health initiatives.