Newton Pet Licenses Due By Tuesday

Residents must renew pet licenses to avoid late fees

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:43pm

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Newton residents who own dogs, cats, or miniature pigs must renew their pet's license by Tuesday, March 31st to avoid a $20 late fee. Pet licenses are required yearly in Newton and cost $15 for neutered/spayed pets and $25 for unaltered pets.

Why it matters

The pet licensing process helps the Newton Police Department reunite lost pets with their owners, with an 80% success rate for dogs found running loose in the community.

The details

To get a license, residents must provide proof that their pet has been vaccinated. Licenses can be obtained at the Newton Police Department or online through the city's website. Police say the licensing program allows them to track the number of animals in the community.

  • Pet licenses are due by Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
  • Newton issues around 1,200-1,300 pet licenses per year on average.

The players

Newton Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that oversees the pet licensing program in Newton.

Chris Wing

A captain with the Newton Police Department who oversees the pet licensing program.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of what the whole premise of having the dog and cat licensing is so we know how many animals we have, especially if they run off or get lost. They'll have a tag, and we can reconnect them with their owner.”

— Chris Wing, Police Captain

What’s next

Residents have until Tuesday, March 31st to renew their pet's license before facing a $20 late fee.

The takeaway

Newton's pet licensing program helps the police department track the local animal population and quickly reunite lost pets with their owners, demonstrating the value of responsible pet ownership in the community.