New Castle County reminds dog owners that state law requires dogs to be licensed and vaccinated. The requirement applies to all county residents except those who live in the city of Wilmington, which has its own licensing program. County licenses are needed for dogs six months or older as of Jan. 1. State law requires licenses to be purchased by March 1.
Dog owners can obtain their licenses online; for instructions go to www.nccde.org/doglicenses, where you can also learn how to purchase licenses by mail and through participating retail vendors. Licenses and application forms may also be obtained at the New Castle County Government Center, 87 Reads Way in New Castle, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.
Dog owners may call (302) 323-2600 for more information.
A one-year license costs $10 for a spayed/neutered dog and $15 for an unsterilized dog. Two- and three-year licenses are also available. Owners must provide proof their pet has a current rabies vaccination. Discounts are available for disabled citizens and those 65 and older.
Licensing fees help support the county’s three dog parks – at Carousel, Iron Hill, and Talley Day parks.
The state of Delaware turned over dog licensing to the counties in 2010. Any state dog licenses still held by county residents are valid until expiration.