License
Online pet licensing portal
Please take a moment to read through the instructions below that apply to you before proceeding to the licensing portal.
If you experience difficulties or have any questions please contact us at petlicensing@seattle.gov. If you prefer to renew over the phone please call us during our business hours at (206) 386-4262.
If you previously had a Seattle pet license, log in using a current License Number or Person Number and your last name. Do NOT enter an email or a password in the fields on the left. If you are using a Person Number make sure that you select the blue text underneath the first box on the right that says, "Or use your Person #." If you do not know this information do NOT create a new account. Please contact us at petlicensing@seattle.gov or (206) 386-4262 to receive your login information. When ready, scroll down and click "Purchase a License" below. This will take you to the login page.
If this is your first license with the City of Seattle then click on "Create New Customer Account," below the "Log in" button. You will be prompted to provide your information.
After entering or verifying your contact information, click "Add Animal" to add your new pet. If you are trying to renew a pet's license please reference the "Renew a License" instructions. Please do NOT create a new animal record for a pet that already has a license.
Attention: DO NOT click the "Add" button under available licenses for your pet. If you would like to change the length of your license (ex. 1 Year License to a 2 Year License) please call us at (206) 386-4262. You are currently unable to do so in the portal and will create a duplicate license which may result in late fees.
To renew your pet's license, log in using the license number and your last name. You can find the license number on the renewal card you receive in the mail or on their license tag. You may also use your Person Number by selecting, "Or use your Person #." If you do not have your renewal card, or do not know the license number or your person number, contact us at petlicensing@seattle.gov or (206) 386-4262. DO NOT create a new account if you do not know your login information.
Select the “Renew Now” button under your pet’s licenses. DO NOT click the “Add” button under available licenses for your pet.
If you have ever had a discounted license in Seattle, your discount should already be on your account. If you don't see your discount on your altered pet's license, you can contact us at petlicensing@seattle.gov or (206) 386-4262. There is no discount on unaltered pets (pets that have not been spayed or neutered).
If you are newly eligible for a discount or purchasing a Seattle license for the first time, you will need to present a Gold Card (ages 60+) or a FLASH Card (ages 18-59 with qualifying disabilities). Gold Cards are available at the Seattle Animal Shelter and at other locations throughout Seattle. Please visit Age Friendly Seattle's Discount Program page for additional locations or to fill out a FLASH card application.
Provide your Gold/FLASH Card by presenting it in person, emailing a photo of it to petlicensing@seattle.gov or calling (206) 386-4262, and we'll add it to your account. Your discount will apply to all future licenses/renewals.
The Seattle Municipal Code allows you to purchase a one-year license at the altered rate to give you time to get your pet altered. This can't be done online, but you can mail in your application and check (on the application, please note that you intend to spay/neuter) or come to the shelter or any customer service center to purchase the license in person.
Our online system is unable to create or renew goat or pig licenses. Please mail or bring your payment to one of our in-person licensing locations.
Why license your pet?
Licensing your pet is the easiest way to protect your pet while also helping Seattle's animals.
- Your pet license fee helps us save lives. Pet license fees directly support our animal care and control efforts.
- Lost pets are returned home. If someone finds your pet roaming the neighborhood, a pet license is the fastest way to help ensure your pet makes it home.
- A ride home. Our officers make every effort to return licensed animals while in the field, preventing your pet from a stressful visit to the shelter. Redemption fees will apply.
- Worry-free vacations. You can notify the Seattle Animal Shelter when you are on vacation and someone else is caring for your pet. Simply contact Seattle Pet Licensing at petlicensing@seattle.gov or 206-386-4262.
- Contact in case of emergency. A pet license with up-to-date information helps veterinarians find and contact you should your pet become injured and in need of lifesaving medical treatment.
Licensing your pet is the law
Seattle Municipal Code Section 9.25.050 requires that all cats, dogs, miniature goats and potbellied pigs be licensed. Failure to license or renew your pet's license could result in a $125 citation.