Wayne, NJ Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)

Article VIII of Chapter 68 sets the cat rules. Section 68-52 bars anyone from owning, keeping, harboring or maintaining a cat over six months of age within the Township of Wayne unless the cat is vaccinated and licensed. Shelters, pounds, kennels, pet shops, veterinary establishments and State or Federally licensed research facilities are exempt. The Department of Health can exempt a cat from vaccination for a specified period on a veterinarian's certificate citing infirmity or another physical condition or therapy regimen. The definition of owner in § 68-51 reaches anyone who knowingly permits a cat to remain for 2 or more meals on or about premises that person occupies.

Under § 68-53, the keeper of a cat of licensing age (six months, or a set of permanent teeth) applies each January to the Township Department of Health for a license and tag for every cat. The cat must wear a collar or other device showing the license number, or the number can be tattooed in the ear at the owner's expense. A cat with no current license number is treated as a stray and can be taken into Township custody and impounded at the designated animal shelter. Licenses run from January 1 to December 31, renewals are due by February 15 or a late fee applies, and a valid New Jersey license tag from another municipality is accepted. Anyone who brings an unlicensed cat into the Township and keeps it more than 10 days must apply immediately. Proof of licensing must be produced on request of a health official, police officer or Animal Control Officer.

Section 68-54 caps the number at five cats on any property. Chapter 75 sets the fees: $8 for a neutered or spayed cat, $15 for a nonneutered or nonspayed cat, $5 to replace a lost license and a $10 late fee. Community cats managed in a TNVM program are exempt from §§ 68-53 and 68-54 under § 68-74.