Atlanta, GA Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Classified dangerous/vicious animals only
- Deadline
- 30 days of classification order
- Who inserts chip
- Licensed veterinarian
- Register chip with
- Manufacturer + Fulton Co. Animal Control
- Missed deadline
- Euthanasia possible after 35 days
Summary
In Atlanta, dogs and other animals officially classified as dangerous or vicious must be permanently microchipped by a licensed veterinarian, with the chip registered with Fulton County Animal Control, before the owner can obtain the required certificate of registration.
Written evidence that the animal is permanently identified by insertion of a microchip by a licensed veterinarian. Said chip must be registered with the chip parent company and Fulton County Animal Control within 30 days of an order classifying the animal as dangerous or vicious or within such later time as specified by a court of competent jurisdiction or within 30 days of the conclusion of any appeal of a court's order that upholds the classification of an animal as dangerous or vicious;
Full Breakdown
Atlanta does not require microchips for pets generally. But once an animal control hearing board or probate court classifies a dog or other animal as dangerous or vicious, City Code § 18-172 requires the owner to get it microchipped by a licensed veterinarian and register the chip with the manufacturer and Fulton County Animal Control within 30 days of the classification order (or within 30 days after any appeal concludes). No certificate of registration -- and no release of the animal to its owner -- is issued without that proof, alongside liability insurance, sterilization proof, and a secure enclosure.
Violations & Fines
Owners who miss the 30-day microchip/registration deadline face denial of the certificate of registration; the animal is not released to them, and it may be euthanized as soon as 35 days after the classification order becomes final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every dog in Atlanta need a microchip?
Who enforces this requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
Compare Atlanta to another location·View the Georgia animal ordinances overview
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