Fishers, IN Animal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/Neuter (2026)
Key Facts
- Age threshold
- 6 months and older
- Exception
- Free breeder's permit exempts owner
- Permit term
- 12 months, renewable per litter
- Fine
- Up to $2,500 per occurrence
- Puppy/kitten sale age
- Not younger than 8 weeks
Summary
Fishers requires every dog and cat over six months old to be spayed or neutered by a licensed vet, unless the owner secures a free breeder's permit or another exception under City Code § 91.20 applies.
(A) Each dog and cat over the age of six months which is kept in the city shall be sterilized and rendered incapable of reproducing by a licensed veterinarian, with the following exceptions as long as the requirements noted herein are met: (1) A free breeder's permit has been secured according to the process noted in this section...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ordinance No. 051826E, passed 5-18-26; and Resolution No. R051826C, passed 5-18-26; and State legislation current through Indiana Legislative Service, 2026 Acts, Pamphlet #1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 91.20 mandates sterilization for every dog and cat over six months old kept in Fishers, with limited exceptions: a free breeder's permit from the Animal Control Officer, proof the pet already receives adequate care, or a veterinarian's letter showing surgery risks the animal's health. A breeder's permit lasts 12 months, must be renewed for each additional litter, and requires immunizing and health-certifying any puppies or kittens sold, traded, or given away, none younger than eight weeks old.
Violations & Fines
Keeping an unsterilized dog or cat without a valid exception draws a fine of up to $2,500 per occurrence under § 91.99, on top of the underlying permit and litter-registration requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spaying or neutering required for pets in Fishers, Indiana?
How do I avoid Fishers' mandatory spay/neuter rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fishers
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