Belmont, Massachusetts

§ 60-200 Pets and other animals.

A. Licensing of dogs and cats. No person shall own or keep a dog or cat, six months of age or older, within the Town unless a license for such dog or cat is obtained from the Town Clerk. The license period shall be from January 1 through December 31; provided, however, that all applications for license renewals shall be submitted by March 15 of each year, or the licensee may be subject to late fees. Nonrefundable license and late fees shall be established from time to time by the Town Clerk, unless Town Meeting approval is required pursuant to MGL c. 140, § 139, or other applicable law. License fees for dogs and cats owned or kept by residents who are age 60 or older shall be at a discounted rate of at least 25% less than the established fee. All license fees shall be waived for dogs and cats that serve as service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. Not more than three dogs over three months of age shall be kept in any household without complying with the kennel licensing provisions set forth in § 60-205. All dogs and cats are required to wear their license tags at all times.

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(2) No dog or cat six months of age or older shall be licensed unless there is presented to the Town Clerk at the time of licensing either:

(a) Proof that the dog or cat has been spayed or neutered;

(b) A statement signed by a veterinarian stating why spaying or neutering has been delayed; or

(c) A statement signed by the owner or keeper of the dog or cat that a decision has been made not to spay or neuter the dog or cat.

(3) A special breeder’s license shall be obtained for any dog or cat with respect to which a statement is presented that a decision has been made not to spay or neuter pursuant to § 60-200A(2)(c).