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By Cam Lee

Pet licenses

Pet licenses are due for 2026: City of Melfort

Jan 7, 2026 | 4:22 PM

The City of Melfort is reminding residents to renew their pet licenses with the turn of the calendar.

Director of Public Works Kalyna Cipywnyk said there were no cost increases to license fees in 2026, adding it’s important to have your pet licensed for many reasons.

“It is the law,” Cipywnyk said. “We have Bylaws in Melfort to regulate and control the ownership and possession of dogs and cats.”

Licensing animals is part of the Bylaws, which can be found on the city’s website. Cipywnyk said the animal has a better chance of being returned home if lost when it is licensed, and if a licensed pet is found during a general or medical emergency, the owner can be found faster. Residents can also avoid fines and impoundment charges listed in the bylaw.

People can purchase or renew dog and cat licenses in person at City Hall or on the City’s website, for both new and existing pets. Licenses are currently $34.10 for non-spayed or neutered animals. The cost is reduced to $12.10 if the pet owner provides a certificate from a certified veterinarian stating that animal has been spayed or neutered.

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Cipywnyk said the fees are subject to change upon approval of the City’s Fees and Charges Bylaw.

“It is the owners’ responsibility to ensure all dogs and cats wear a collar to which the valid license tag is attached.”

The first violation of the Dog Bylaw is a $50 fine, the second in the second in the same calendar year is $125, and any subsequent violation is $250. For the Cat Bylaw, the first fine is also $50, the second in a calendar year is $125, and the third is $250. Fourth or subsequent offenses within 12 months, liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000 in the case of an individual, and $25,000 in the case of a corporation.

Cipywnyk said it is against the animal control bylaw for animals to be at large in the city, for the safety of both animals and residents.

“If an animal is found at large and brought to the pound by Animal Control, the pet owner will need to pay the associated fines and impoundment charges before the animal is released back into their care.

There are also controls as to what animals are allowed in the City of Melfort. Poultry, cattle, and other livestock are prohibited in all residential districts. Meanwhile, residents are only allowed a maximum of four cats in one location, and three dogs. Animal defecation on property within Melfort must be removed immediately, while defecation on personal property must be removed daily.

The Noise Bylaw also states that “no person who owns, keeps, houses, harbours, or allows to stay in his premises a dog shall allow such dog to bark excessively or howl excessively.”

Cipywnyk said any complaints regarding dog or cat behaviour can be directed to City Hall, while concerns or inquiries about stray animals can be expressed to the Animal Control Officer at 306-921-4977. For lost or missing pets, contact the North East SPCA at 306-752-7722.

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com