Knowledge Base

Household pets are not licensed by the City, but are required to have an ID tag or to be micro-chipped. A license does need to obtained in order to keep Chickens, Ducks, or Pigeons at a residential property in the City. Chapter 3-1 of the Rochester Code of Ordinances does also require a breeder's permit in order to keep more than nine animals in a household. 

For more information on Animal Licenses, visit: Animal Licensing

Most dogs do not need a license in Rochester.  Only dangerous dogs are licensed.

Dogs, cats or ferrets over the age of four months must have an ID tag, to be worn at all times, that has on it the owner’s name and contact information, including a valid telephone number, or they must be micro-chipped with the micro-chip data contact information kept up to date. There is not a separate license that must be obtained from the City for these animals.

All dog, cats and ferrets in the city limits must have rabies shots.