What dog owners in Louisville need to know — license, leash rules and barking — in plain English, each linked to the official Louisville page it came from.
Dogs and cats need a Metro license: $10 for one year or $27 for three if spayed or neutered, $120 a year if not, or a $25 lifetime license ($12.50 for seniors, two pets per household). Assistance dogs are exempt from fees.
Source: Louisville Metro Code ch. 91 · Get or renew a license →
Off its owner's premises a dog must be on a lead or leash, controlled by someone physically able to hold it, unless it is in a designated off-leash area. Dangerous dogs' leashes may not exceed four feet.
Source: Louisville Metro Code ch. 91
Habitual barking that is excessive or continual and seriously interferes with neighbors' use of their property is a nuisance. Complaints can be filed with Animal Services with a statement or anonymously.
Source: Louisville Metro Code ch. 91
Not covered yet: pet limits — we only publish a rule when we can link to the official page. Ask Louisville 311 or animal services.
Yes. Kentucky requires dogs to wear a licence tag; licences are issued by the county, with proof of rabies vaccination.
Kentucky has no statewide leash law, but a peace officer or animal control officer may seize a dog running at large unaccompanied between sunset and sunrise. Daytime rules are local.
Yes. Kentucky requires dogs, cats and ferrets by 4 months of age to be vaccinated against rabies. Boosters follow the vaccine used (usually every 1 or 3 years).
When FDA announces a dog or cat food recall, we email you the brand, the product and what to do.
Or follow the RSS feedGeneral information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change, often every year — the official page linked under each answer is the final word. Counties and homeowner associations may add their own rules.
