What dog owners in Philadelphia need to know — license, leash rules and barking — in plain English, each linked to the official Philadelphia page it came from.
Every dog four months or older must be vaccinated against rabies and licensed with ACCT Philly, which takes applications online. The license costs $16 if the dog is spayed or neutered and $40 if not.
Dogs must be on a leash of six feet or shorter, including everywhere on Parks & Rec property except where posted as animal-free or in a fenced dog run.
Source: Phila. Code §§ 10-104, 10-105
The noise ordinance forbids more than five barks (or other animal sounds) in a five-minute period that can be heard more than 50 feet past the property line. ACCT Philly enforces barking and at-large complaints with warnings and citations.
Not covered yet: pet limits — we only publish a rule when we can link to the official page. Ask Philadelphia 311 or animal services.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires dogs 3 months and older to be licensed each year (or for life) through the county treasurer.
Pennsylvania requires owners to keep a dog at all times confined on their premises, firmly secured so it cannot stray, or under the reasonable control of a person (or lawfully hunting).
Yes. Pennsylvania requires dogs and cats within four weeks of turning 12 weeks old, to be vaccinated against rabies. Boosters follow the vaccine used (usually every 1 or 3 years).
Pennsylvania caps a security deposit at two months' rent in the first year of a lease and one month's rent from the second year on.
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.
