Pursuant to township ordinance and state law, any dog which has attained the age of seven months or which possesses a set of permanent teeth must be licensed and have a current metal registration tag securely fastened to a collar or harness.

Licensing fees are as follows:

• Spayed/neutered dog: $14.00
• Non-spayed/neutered dog: $17.00
• A late fee of $5.00 will be added to the licensing fee if received after February 28.
• Documented guide/service dogs are exempt from license fees but still must be licensed. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not consider emotional support dogs as service dogs.

All dogs must be licensed by January 31 of each year. License renewal applications are not mailed to homes. For your convenience, we have made the application form available for download below.

Dog License Application 

Complete the application, enclose your check made payable to “Vernon Township Animal Control” and include proof of rabies vaccination and altering/spaying (if applicable) along with a self-addressed stamped envelope so that the license and proof can be returned.

Please note that in order to obtain a license, your dog’s rabies vaccination must be current through November 1 of the current license year. If your dog’s vaccination expires before November 1 of this year, you must have your dog re-vaccinated before submitting this application and include a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate.

Newly acquired dogs not currently licensed in New Jersey or any dog attaining licensing age must be licensed within 10 days of acquisition date or reaching licensing age.

Have questions or need more information? Contact Vernon Township Animal Control at 973.764.7751.