Pet Regulations
ALL pets must be licensed.
For more information, see Animal Services Licensing Your Pet page.
You can view the licensing ordinance Chapter 4, Section 62 regarding rabies vaccination HERE.
Pet breeding is NOT allowed within City limits.
All dogs must be on a leash. Failure to do so may result in $200 fines.
Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets including but not limited to excrement.
Read the entire pet-related code here.
Find a stray animal?
If you find a stray animal in the neighborhood, you can have them picked up by calling the City at (803) 776-7387 or the County at (803) 929-6000. Strays can also be dropped off at 127 Humane Lane Columbia, SC. Click here for more information. Below are a few more tips:
- Don’t run from a dog as it has a natural instinct to chase. Stand still; usually the dog will sniff you, then leave you alone.
- Don’t touch a sick, injured or scared animal; it may bite you out of fear or surprise.
- Avoid staring into a dog’s eyes; they may think you are threatening them.