Bothell, WA Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)

The only microchip requirement in the Bothell Municipal Code sits in BMC 6.14.030(C), the dangerous dog registration rule. The owner of a dangerous dog pays a registration fee set by city council resolution and follows the city's registration procedures. Registration expires one year after issuance and must be renewed every 12 months.

The registration requirements list eight items: a yearly photograph showing the dog's coloring and body shape; proof of a proper enclosure and a posted warning sign; proof that the animal has been microchipped, with the microchip number provided; proof of rabies vaccination; proof that the animal has been spayed or neutered; proof of a muzzle and a leash; proof of a current license tag and a brightly colored collar sufficient to restrain the animal; and proof of a surety bond or liability insurance policy providing at least $500,000 coverage, continuously maintained during the life of the registration.

The animal control authority can inspect the premises where a dangerous dog is maintained at any time (BMC 6.14.030(D)). At all times a dangerous dog must wear its collar and license tag, be confined to a proper enclosure on the owner's premises, and, when off the premises, be securely leashed, under the control of a competent adult, and humanely muzzled or restrained in an airline-guideline carrier or crate while traveling in a vehicle. An owner who disputes the determination appeals to the city hearing examiner under Chapter 6.24 BMC.

Ordinary pets are identified differently. BMC 6.08.030(F) requires license tags securely affixed to a collar or harness worn at all times, with a tattoo of the license number on the right ear or the inside right thigh or groin as the alternative. A microchip is not named as an identification option for ordinary pets in that section.