Lincoln, NE Animal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/Neuter (2026)

Proof of surgical sterilization or a deposit to secure sterilization for any dog or cat that has been impounded two or more times for violations of this title according to Animal Control records. Such proof or deposit shall be provided prior to the release of the impounded dog or cat as follows:

i. For proof of surgical sterilization, the owner shall provide a current written statement signed by a licensed veterinarian that the dog or cat is surgically sterile; or

ii. For a deposit to secure sterilization, the owner shall provide a spaying or neutering deposit to the Director accompanied by forms provided by the Director. The Director shall release the deposit only upon proof in the form of a written statement signed by a licensed veterinarian that the dog or cat has been surgically spayed or neutered within fifteen days from the date of the deposit. The Director may release the deposit to the veterinarian who performed the surgical sterilization upon the signature of the owner expressly authorizing such release. If the owner shall fail to have such dog or cat spayed or neutered within fifteen days from the date of the deposit, such deposit shall be forfeited. In addition, failure to sterilize the dog or cat shall constitute a separate violation of this title.

b. Payment of the daily boarding cost and impoundment fees shall not relieve the owner from the responsibility of any or all penalties which may be imposed for a violation of any of the provisions of this title.