License Definitions
Salt Lake County Licensing Fee Definitions
Confused about licensing terms? Here are some definitions to help you out!
All animals must have a current Rabies vaccination to be licensed. Salt Lake County Animal Services offers low-cost Rabies vaccinations at our shelter on a walk-in basis - no appointment necessary.
Definition of Licensing Terms- Sterilized
- Animals that have been spayed (female) or neutered (male) are referred to as 'Sterilized'. Another term commonly used for sterilized is 'fixed'. These animals are no longer able to reproduce and are subject to lower licensing fees as part of communities' attempts to reduce pet overpopulation.
- Unsterilized
- Animals that have not been spayed (female) or neutered (male) are considered 'Unsterilized'. These animals have not been 'fixed' and are able to reproduce. They are subject to higher licensing fees.
- Senior
- Citizens who are 60 years old or older are eligible for 'Senior' licenses. These licenses are subject to lower licensing fees. Proof of age is required to apply for these licenses (driver's license or other photo ID that gives birthdate).
- Microchipped
- Animals who have had an identification microchip implanted are considered 'Microchipped'. The microchip is implanted through a relatively painless procedure and permanently identifies the pet. Since tags can be lost/removed, we recommend microchips for all animals to ensure they make it home should they ever be lost. We offer low-cost microchipping on a walk-in basis (no appointment necessary) and licensing fees are often reduced for microchipped animals.
- Lifetime License
- In some jurisdictions, senior citizens are eligible for lifetime licensing. These animals usually have to be microchipped and sterilized. Lifetime licenses are one charge for the life of the pet so long as they are annually renewed.
- Transfer License
- If you are moving into an area we service and have licensed your pet at your last address, you may be eligible for a transfer license. In this process, we charge a reduced fee to transfer your license to your new address. Proof of original license is required.
- Replacement Tag
- If you've already licensed and your animal loses his/her tag, for a low cost we can create a replacement tag. This tag will have a different license number.
For licensing in other cities/areas, please contact your local city offices/shelters (pdf, 28.9kB).