All dogs and cats over six months of age within the city must have a current animal license. Current licenses expire April 30, 2020 and are for a two year period of time. The cost is $20. A license may be obtained by completing an application online, along with attaching a certification that the dog and or cat has been vaccinated against rabies. If the vaccination expires before the license, the owner is responsible for promptly renewing the vaccination and providing the city with a copy of the new certificate. You may also apply for a license by mail; just give City Hall a call at 651-204-6000 and we will mail you a paper copy.
In addition to requiring pet licenses, the city also enforces other animal regulations.
- No one may keep more than three domestic animals on the same premises, and only two of those three may be dogs. The only exceptions are for those who hold kennel licenses or for a litter of puppies or kittens from birth through six months of age. You may apply for a kennel license at City Hall. The City Council considers these applications at public hearings.
- Vadnais Heights does not allow cats and dogs to run at large. Pets in public places or on public property must be restrained by a chain or leash of six feet or less. Pets in a private yard or lot must have the property owner’s permission and be effectively restrained by a fence or by another restraint that prevents them from leaving an unfenced area.
- Dogs may not disturb the neighbors. It is unlawful to own, keep, or harbor a dog that howls, yelps, or barks to the reasonable annoyance of others.
- Clean up after your dog. You may not leave dog excrement on any public property, or on any private property that does not belong to the pet’s owner. Please pick up your dog’s waste and put in your own trash can – not in a city refuse barrel. Also, please keep your dog off other people’s lawns. Dog urine can damage grass or plants.
To review all rules and regulations for owning an animal within city limits, please review Chapter 6 in our City Code. For questions, call City Hall at 651-204-6000 or email vhinfo@cityvadnaisheights.com.