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1. Can I renew my dog license before January of the year that it is due?

You cannot renew a dog license until January of the year the license is due.

To avoid late fees, licenses must be renewed by February 28th by 4 pm of the year the license is due. After February 28th, the initial late fee is $5. $5 is added to the initial late fee for each additional month that it is late.

Please note: Dog licenses for Hamilton Township residents will be issued by the Division of Health's Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at 609-890-3550.

2. Do I have to notify the township when my dog expires?

Yes, it is recommended that you notify the animal shelter so that they can update the dog license records.  You can call the shelter at 609-890-3555 or submit a request on our website, Hamiltonnj.com under Services.

3. How much does it cost to purchase a dog license and where do you obtain a license or get a replacement tag?

The dog license fee is $21, $18 if your dog is spayed/neutered (proof required). For Senior Citizens (age 65 and older) the cost is $2 if the animal is spayed/neutered and $5 if not. You may obtain a license or replacement tags at the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue. Access the license application. There is no charge for a replacement tag.

Check, cash and credit card is accepted.

Licenses are due by 4 pm on February 28. Late fees begin March 1, and are an additional $5 each month. If the resident is new to Hamilton or the dog is new and has not been registered before, there is no late fee.

A dog license is good from January to January. Even if you purchase a license in the middle of the calendar year, you are still required to obtain a new license by February 28th of the next calendar year for that entire year.

Any dog 7 months of age or older is required to have a dog license.

4. What happens if the rabies vaccine expires after March 1 but before November 1?

If a rabies certificate expires after the due date of Feb 28 to renew a dog license but before November 1 of 2023, in order to avoid paying the late fee starting March 1, the resident can call their Veterinarian to ask if the dog can be vaccinated prior to the rabies expiration date.  If not, the Vet may be able to provide a rabies exempt form (PDF).