Sonoma County Animal Services pet licensing
Why license?
In accordance with state and local laws, pet licenses are mandatory in the areas that Sonoma County Animal Services serves. In fact, licenses are mandatory in nearly every community across North America. Why? Because licenses help keep pets and the communities they live in safe. DocuPet was brought on board to simplify and improve pet licensing to benefit not only pet owners like you, but the entire community. DocuPet makes it easy for Sonoma County Animal Services to deliver a successful pet licensing program with a streamlined software and management solution that makes licensing a breeze for pet owners and administrators alike.
What will you need?
Licensing your pet will require specific information and proof. Having these items at the ready allows for the fastest experience. You have the option to upload a document as a saved or scanned file, or you may take a photo directly from your device on our upload page.
Payment
We securely process payment online and accept all major credit and debit cards as forms of payment.
Documents
Spay/Neuter proof
This document is required to qualify for the discounted rate and is only needed once and will be saved to your pet’s profile upon upload for future renewals. This proof declaring that your pet has been spayed or neutered may be in the form of a statement or receipt from the veterinarian, shelter, or clinic that performed the procedure.
Rabies vaccination proof
This document serves as formal proof that your pet has received a California-approved rabies vaccination. This document may be in the form of a Rabies Vaccination Certificate that has been signed by a veterinarian or certified professional. It is the law that pets must be up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations, so new documents will need to be uploaded to your pets profile as they receive their booster shots.
How to license
Online
The fastest and easiest way to license or renew is right here. You'll create a profile for your pet, upload any necessary documents, process your license registration, and receive purchase confirmations via email. Payment can be made using a credit card or Visa/Mastercard debit card. Each year, you just need to log in to your existing account and renew - it's super easy!
License a pet for the first time
I've never licensed a pet with Sonoma County Animal Services before.
License nowIn-person
In person licensing is available at the following location(s) however it's important to know you will still receive your tag in the mail:
Don't forget to check hours of operation, appointment policies, and accepted payment methods prior to heading out.
Sonoma County Animal Services
1247 Century Court, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
If you opt to license via snail mail - keep in mind processing your registration will take a lot longer!
Make sure you complete the below form in full and that it is free of any errors otherwise your registration may not be successfully processed. The fine print is there for a reason so keep an eye out for accepted payment methods, who the check should be made out to, where it should be mailed, and any required supporting documentation.
Pet license form (English)
- Download the City of Santa Rosa application form
- Download the City of Healdsburg application form
- Download the City of Petaluma application form
- Download the Unincorporated Sonoma County application form
- Download the Windsor application form
Formulario de licencia para mascotas (Español)
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de la ciudad de Santa Rosa
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de la ciudad de Healdsburg
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de la ciudad de Petaluma
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de las áreas no incorporadas del condado de Sonoma
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Windsor
Phone
If you're unable to complete your pet's license online, you can contact our Customer Care team for assistance. Please note that licenses are primarily designed to be completed online, and phone support is intended for troubleshooting or special circumstances.
You must have up-to-date spay/neuter or rabies documentation on file. We can accept credit cards and Visa/Mastercard debit cards for payment.
DocuPet Customer Care: 1-877-239-6072
Hours of Operation:Monday-Saturday: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM PDT (excluding holidays)Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM PDT
License fees & details
Sonoma County Animal Services is contracted to issue licenses in the following communities
City of Santa Rosa Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in and the City of Santa Rosa. Licenses are available for 1-year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| *Altered Dog | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $22.00 | N/A |
| Cat License | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Cat License (Lifetime) | $14.00 | N/A |
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the altered dog discounted rate.
*Pet owners must be 62 or older to qualify for senior citizen rates - Voluntary cat licenses are available in City of Santa Rosa and are valid for the lifetime of your pet. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.
- A late fee of $10.00 applies 30 days following license expiration.
- A replacement tag is available for a $14.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, one year in the future, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the license term. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to your pet's license, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over four months of age.
City of Healdsburg Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats living in the City of Healdsburg. Licenses are available for 1 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| *Altered Dog | $15.00 | $7.50 |
| Unaltered Dog | $30.00 | N/A |
| Cat License | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| Cat License (Lifetime) | $5.00 | N/A |
- Pet owners must be 62 or older with an altered dog to qualify for senior citizen rates. Senior citizens only qualify for two altered licenses at the $7.50 license rate. Any additional altered dogs will be issued licenses at the $15.00 license fee.
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the altered dog discounted rate.
- A late fee of $15.00 applies 30 days following license expiration.
- A replacement tag is available for a $3.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, one year in the future, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the license term. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to your pet's license, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
City of Petaluma Details & Fees
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Petaluma. Licenses are available for 1 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee |
|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $26.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $32.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $8.00 fee.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1 year in the future so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the discounted rate.
- Failure to license your pet may result in a fine.
- A late fee of $27 will apply 30 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Unincorporated Sonoma County Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in Unincorporated Sonoma County. Licenses are available for 1 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| *Altered Dog | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $22.00 | N/A |
| Cat License | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Cat License (Lifetime) | $14.00 | N/A |
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the altered dog discounted rate.
*Pet owners must be 62 or older to qualify for senior citizen rates - Voluntary cat licenses are available in Unincorporated Sonoma County and are valid for the lifetime of your pet. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.
- A late fee of $10.00 applies 30 days following license expiration.
- A replacement tag is available for a $14.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, one year in the future, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the license term. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to your pet's license, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over four months of age.
Windsor Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in Windsor. Licenses are available for 1-year terms and must be renewed prior to expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $22.00 | N/A |
| Cat License | Fee | Seniors Fee (62+) |
|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Cat License (Lifetime) | $14.00 | N/A |
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the altered dog discounted rate.
- Pet owners must be 62 or older to qualify for senior citizen rates.
- Voluntary cat licenses are available in Windsor and are valid for the lifetime of your pet. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.
- A late fee of $10.00 applies 30 days following license expiration.
- A replacement tag is available for a $14.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, one year in the future, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the license term. If your pet's rabies vaccination expires prior to your pet's license, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over four months of age.
Frequently asked questions
HELP DESK
Still have a question that you have not been able to answer?
Visit our Help Desk for more information: https://docupetinc.zendesk.com/hc/en-us
LICENSING OPTIONS, DATES, AND LOCATIONS
When does my pet's license expire?
Licenses expire at the end of the 1 year term unless your pet's current rabies vaccination expiration date falls prior to the end of the term. A license cannot be valid at any time a pet's rabies is expired. If you provide new proof of rabies expiration extending beyond the original term selected prior to the license expiration date, your pet's license may be extended to the full term originally selected.
Why does my pet's license expire on their rabies vaccination expiration date?
As per California State law, a pet license may not be valid at anytime a pet's rabies vaccination is expired.
What is the refund policy on licenses?
Refunds may be granted if your pet has passed away, provided the request is submitted within 30 days of the license purchase date. After this period, we’re unfortunately unable to process a refund.
Where can I license in person?
In person licensing is not currently available. Once in-person licensing resumes you can visit: Sonoma County Animal Services 1247 Century Court, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
When can I renew my pet's license?
You may renew your pet's license within 60 days of your pet's current license expiration date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new license will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.
How can I license my pets?
Please ensure you have all the required documentation in order to licence your pet. If you have all the records you need to proceed you can license your pet online, or in person at Sonoma County Animal Services located at 1247 Century Ct Santa Rosa CA 95403.
If this is your first time licensing a pet in the City of Santa Rosa or Sonoma County, click here to learn more.
If you already have an account with us or have ever licensed a pet with Sonoma County Animal Services click here to learn more.
When does my pet's temporary license expire?
Temporary licenses expire after 90 days. To convert a temporary license into a full license you must provide new proof of rabies vaccination prior to the temporary license expiration date. If the newly provided rabies expiration date falls prior to the term end, the new license expiration date will be the same as the rabies vaccination expiration date.
How old does my pet need to be for me to license them?
All pets over the age of 4 months are required to be licensed.
What jurisdictions does SCAS provide licensing services for?
SCAS provides licensing services for the following areas: City of Santa Rosa, City of Healdsburg, City of Petaluma, Town of Windsor, and some areas of Unincorporated Sonoma County.
Do licenses need to be renewed annually?
Licenses are required to be renewed prior to the expiration date each year.
PROGRAM AND PARTNERSHIP
What if I have a question about the DocuPet system?
DocuPet has a Help Center that houses many helpful articles about the DocuPet system, communications, and other information that is not specific to your licensing jurisdiction. Visit the Help Center Here.
Why does the system say my address is not valid?
You may have entered your address incorrectly or we may not have your address in the address database for your community. Please double-check all spelling and ensure you are using the abbreviated form for your street type ex. St instead of Street. You may contact SCAS directly if you believe you reside within their jurisdiction but your address is not being accepted by the system.
FEES AND FINES
What is the processing fee?
A processing fee of $2.00 per license product applies to all online orders.
I am a veteran. Are there any special rates?
Sonoma County Animal Services does not offer any special rates for veterans. Please call (707) 565-7100 to directly to discuss.
Why am I being charged a late fee?
Late fees apply if a license is not renewed within the following number of days after it expires. The number of days varies by jurisdiction:
- Santa Rosa: Late fees apply after 30 days
- Petaluma: Late fees apply after 60 days
- Healdsburg: Late fees apply after 30 days
- Windsor: Late fees apply after 30 days
- Unincorporated Sonoma County: Late fees apply after 30 days
What is the fee for licensing?
Visit this page for licensing options and fees: Sonoma County Licensing Fees
My pet has been spayed/neutered since I last purchased their pet license. How do I qualify for the discounted rate?
If your community requires proof of spay/neuter for your pet in order to receive a discounted licensing rate, you will need to upload the appropriate documentation stating that your pet has been spayed/neutered to your online account. Once the documentation has been approved by Sonoma County Animal Services, you will be eligible to receive the new discounted rate. Otherwise, you can visit Sonoma County Animal Services in person at 1247 Century Ct Santa Rosa CA 95403 and show proof of spay/neuter there.
My pet qualifies for the service animal rate. What do I do?
Please visit SCAS in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. They are located at 1247 Century Court, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.
What is the senior citizen age requirement?
Senior rates are only offered in the following jurisdictions:
- Santa Rosa
- Healdsburg
- Windsor
- Unincorporated Sonoma County
To qualify for the senior rate, you must be 62 or older, and your pet must be spayed or neutered.
Is there a discount for licensing multiple pets?
No, there is no discount for licensing multiple pets. Each pet will be charged the appropriate licensing fee.
ACCOUNT UPDATES
Does my license transfer if I am moving?
If you are moving, please be sure to update your address by logging into your online account and navigating to your Profile Settings page. Even though you are moving, you’ll still be able to keep your pet's tag and access your pet's online account. However, your current license may not be valid in the new community you are moving to. Please get in touch with the pet licensing provider in the new community you are moving to in order to find out more information.
TAGS
Does my pet need to wear the license tag?
Your pet must always wear their license tag. You may be fined for failing to affix your pet's tag.
CITY INFORMATION AND CITY ORDINANCES
Where can I find information about the pet licensing ordinance/bylaw?
Visit this page for information on licensing ordinances/bylaws: Sonoma County Code
What species are required to be licensed?
The following species are required to be licensed:
- Santa Rosa: Dogs are mandatory; cats are voluntary.
- Petaluma: Dogs only.
- Healdsburg: Dogs are mandatory; cats are voluntary.
- Windsor: Dogs are mandatory; cats are voluntary.
- Unincorporated Sonoma County: Dogs are mandatory; cats are voluntary.
Who do I call if there’s an emergency involving dogs? (dog attack, loose dog, etc.)
Please get in touch with SCAS at (707) 565-7100
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
What are acceptable documentation types?
A rabies proof is required to prove that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies. A rabies proof identifying your pet as spayed/neutered or a spay/neuter proof may be accepted as documentation of sterilization.
Where can I obtain a copy of my pet’s rabies or spay/neuter document?
If you can’t locate the document you received after the procedure was done, you will need to contact your vet to obtain your pet's records. Be sure to specify any and all pets you require documentation for.
Once you’ve got the paperwork in your hands, take a look to ensure:
- The document provided is the right type of proof required.
- Pet and pet owner account data matches your own.
- The document is clear and legible.
I just adopted my pet, but the information on the rabies vaccination certificate does not match my information. What should I do?
If the rabies vaccination certificate does not match your information because the pet was adopted, we recommend contacting Sonoma County Animal Services directly so their team can review and approve the documentation. We suggest reaching out to confirm that you have all required documentation, which may include adoption paperwork, in order to license your pet.
How long does it take for my pet’s documents to be reviewed?
Documentation uploaded via the online system is reviewed within two to three business days.
What documentation is required to purchase a license?
A valid rabies proof is required to purchase a pet license. A 90 day temporary license may be issued if you do not have rabies proof at the time of licensing. Proof of spay/neuter is required to receive the discounted altered rates.
Can I still license my pet if I don’t have the required documentation?
Yes! A temporary license can be issued while you gather your documents. Just follow one of the licensing methods listed above to get started. Please note that proof must be submitted before the temporary license expires, otherwise a new license will need to be purchased.
My pet is rabies exempt, what do I do?
You will need to complete the required paperwork and visit SCAS in person to qualify for rabies exemption.
Why do I have to upload a rabies and spay/neuter document for my pet?
To license your pet, you will be required to show proof that the pet's rabies vaccination is current. Documentation is also required to verify that a pet has been spayed or neutered and must be provided in order to receive the discounted rate. Requiring documentation ensures that provided pet information is accurate, which is critical for identification and safety reasons.