Animal Control
Dog Licensing & Fees
In Maine, licensing your dog is not just a local requirement, it’s state law. All dogs aged 6 months and older must be registered annually.
- Registration Window: October 15 – December 31
- Expiration Date: All licenses expire on December 31.
- Late Fees: A $25.00 fine per dog is assessed starting February 1.
What to bring:
To register, please provide current Rabies Certificates and Spay/Neuter Certificates.
Dog Licensing Fees
| Dog Status | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Spayed / Neutered | $6 |
| Not Spayed / Neutered | $11 |
Who to Call: Identifying Your Need
Understanding whether to contact the local Animal Control Officer (ACO) or State Animal Welfare ensures a faster response.
Local Animal Control Duties
Contact the local ACO for immediate neighborhood or safety concerns, including:
- Dogs at Large: Loose or roaming dogs.
- Safety & Nuisance: Dangerous dogs, noise complaints, or local ordinance violations.
- Rabies & Health: Vaccine enforcement and bite/exposure quarantines.
- Animal Trespass: Livestock loose on roadways or private property.
- Endangerment: Animals confined in vehicles or enclosures during extreme heat or cold.
State Animal Welfare Duties
The state oversees licensing and investigations into serious neglect or cruelty:
- Facility Licensing: Inspections for breeding/boarding kennels, pet shops, and shelters.
- Cruelty Investigations: Allegations of physical abuse, torture, or intentional harm.
- Neglect & Hoarding: Investigating lack of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care.
- Abandonment: Handling cases of abandoned animals (living or deceased).
Forms & Ordinances
Contact
Contact via Sheriff Dispatch
(207) 778-6140
Staff & Roles
Brianna Jorgensen
Animal Control Officer
James Jorgensen
Deputy Animal Control Officer
