Dog licenses, rabies shots and leashes in Baltimore
The city and the surrounding county run separate rules, so check which one applies to your address.
Baltimore City
| Item | What the sources say |
|---|---|
| License required | BARCS says licensing is the law for city residents |
| Rabies | Proof of a current rabies vaccination is needed to buy any license |
| Annual fee | $30 without proof of spay or neuter, $10 with proof (BARCS) |
| Deadline | Within 10 days of getting a pet over four months old or moving to the city (PetData) |
| Leash | An older city brochure says dogs must be leashed at all times, with a $100 citation |
See the BARCS licensing page, Baltimore City licensing requirements on PetData and Baltimore City Health Department pet brochure. The brochure is dated, so confirm the current fine with city animal control.
Baltimore County
The Baltimore County animal laws page says dogs must be on a leash when off the owner's property, that all dogs and cats must be licensed at four months, with new or arriving pets licensed within 30 days, and that rabies vaccination is required at four months. It lists a $100 fine for licensing violations and $30 for rabies.
Elsewhere in Maryland
Counties set their own animal control law, so the Eastern Shore, Montgomery County and Prince George's County can differ. Call local animal services for the rules at your address.
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