Broward County, FL Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)
Key Facts
- Ordinary pets
- Microchipping optional; earns discounted tag fee
- Dangerous dogs
- Microchip mandatory before registration issued
- Guard dogs
- Microchip mandatory, becomes registration number
- Enforcing agency
- Broward County Animal Care Division
Summary
Broward doesn't require microchipping for all pets, but registered dogs and cats with a microchip get a discounted rabies tag fee, while dogs classified dangerous and all guard dogs must be microchipped before registration is allowed.
The Commission shall establish by resolution the fees to be charged for rabies registration tags. This includes a discounted rabies registration tag fee for dogs or cats with a microchip, provided that the owner presents proof of microchip implantation. Sterilization status shall not be a basis for eligibility for reduced tag fees.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72 | Administrative Code: Supplement 28).
Full Breakdown
Broward County's Animal Care Division does not mandate microchipping for ordinary pet dogs and cats, but Section 4-11(d) sets a discounted rabies registration tag fee for any dog or cat whose owner presents proof of microchip implantation, and specifies that sterilization status cannot substitute for that discount. Microchipping becomes mandatory, not optional, once a dog is legally classified dangerous: Section 4-12(b)(2)a requires the owner to pay for a Division-approved microchip and report the chip number, which then becomes the dog's dangerous-dog registration number, before registration can be completed. Guard dogs face the identical mandatory-chip rule under Section 4-13(a)(3).
Violations & Fines
A dangerous dog cannot be registered, and a guard dog cannot lawfully be kept or used, without the required Division-approved microchip; unregistered dangerous or guard dogs are subject to citation, fines set by Commission resolution, and impoundment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Broward County require all pets to be microchipped?
Which dogs must be microchipped in Broward County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Broward County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Broward County to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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