City of Pittsburgh Animal Care and Control (Licensing) – Pittsburgh, PA

Pet Licensing and Public Safety

The City of Pittsburgh Animal Care and Control (ACC), operating out of the Department of Public Safety, manages the mandatory licensing of dogs within the city limits. While the physical counter for licensing is located within the City-County Building, the division’s scope extends throughout all Pittsburgh neighborhoods. State law dictates that all dogs three months of age or older must be licensed annually. This office processes these applications, which are vital for public safety and the safe return of lost pets.

Services and Enforcement

Beyond issuing tags, the Animal Care and Control bureau is responsible for enforcing city and state animal laws. Key functions include:

• Licensing: Issuing annual and lifetime dog licenses. A license is the primary way lost pets are identified and reunited with owners.
• Stray Animal Control: Humanely capturing and sheltering stray dogs and cats.
• Ordinance Enforcement: Investigating complaints regarding leash laws, animal noise, waste removal, and dangerous dogs.
• Rabies Control: Ensuring pets are vaccinated to protect public health.

Visiting the Office

Residents can apply for licenses in person at the City-County Building on Grant Street. Visitors must pass through building security, including metal detectors. While many residents now choose to apply online or via mail, the office remains a resource for questions regarding animal ordinances and lost pet inquiries. It is important to note that this administrative office is separate from the animal shelter facility itself.