Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Director of Health and Community Wellness Dr. Mark Wade today reminded Newark residents who own dogs that with the start of the new year, they must purchase or renew licenses for them. Applications for licenses are available in Room B-17, at City Hall, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. City Hall is located at 920 Broad Street.

Applicants for dog licenses must present the dog’s or dogs’ certificates of vaccination when applying for the license. The fee for dog licenses for spayed or neutered dogs is $9.20. The fee for dogs that are not spayed or neutered is $12.20. In 2019, the City issued 483 dog licenses. In 2018, the City issued 598 licenses.

Under Municipal Ordinances, anyone who owns a dog in the City of Newark must have a license. Each license comes with a metal tag that can be attached to the dog’s collar. Violations can result in fines of up to $50.00 in Newark Municipal Court.

Director Wade noted the importance of keeping dogs leashed when being walked, and reminded residents that dog ownership comes with responsibilities. “Too many animals who arrive as pets ultimately become victims of neglect or abandonment,” he said. “Animal shelters and rescue organizations are filled with pets that have been abandoned. Residents should not undertake dog ownership unless they are prepared for the responsibility, and I urge them to support our shelters by adopting these dogs who need loving homes.”

Under Municipal Ordinance 6:1-12, anyone owning or controlling a dog must remove waste left by that dog from all sidewalks, gutters, streets, or other public areas. Waste must be either flushed in a toilet or placed in a non-leaking container (such as a plastic bag) and then placed in the trash. Violations can result in fines up to $500 in Newark Municipal Court.

- NEWARK -