Newtownabbey Borough Council - Dogs: Dog Licence

In This Section:

Lost & Found Dogs

Dog Licence Applications

How to Apply

You can apply and pay for a licence online, at the Council offices at Mossley Mill or from any local post office. You can also print out a copy of dog licence application forms at the bottom of this page and return it to Newtownabbey Borough Council, Mossley Mill, Newtownabbey, BT36 5QA, with your cheque or postal order.

How Much Does It Cost?

1 Year: £5
1 Year: £2.50 (Over 65 & living alone)
Block Licence: £12.50 (3+ dogs eg.dog kennels & breeders)

Why Should I Get a Dog Licence?

A dog’s licence offers some proof of ownership. Under the Dogs (NI) Order it is a legal requirement that anyone in possession of a dog must hold a valid licence. As the details of dog owner and dog are officially registered with the Council, each owner who registers his or her dog with their local Council is issued with a licence and licence disc which bears the dog's very own personal identification number.

Newtownabbey Borough Council Dog Wardens impound approximately 350 stray dogs a year. Those dogs wearing a valid licence identification disc are more likely to be reunited with their rightful owner. The identification number on the licence disc enables the dog warden to check the Council's licensing records, and trace and advise the owner of the dog's whereabouts, and prevents the dog from being rehomed or unnecessarily destroyed.

When Should I Get a Dog Licence?

Before taking possession of a dog or puppy, owners should ensure that they have already purchased a dog licence. If however, a puppy stays with its mother it must have a licence by the age of six months. If your dog dies and you have a valid licence for it, it is possible to transfer that licence should you obtain another dog (within 30 days).