Charlotte, NC Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)

Section 3-136(a) sets the bureau's fee schedule for redeeming impounded animals, and subsection (a)(4) specifically authorizes the bureau to humanely implant a lawfully impounded animal with an electronic tagging device similar to a microchip so it can be positively identified in the future, and it may do this without getting the owner's or possessor's consent. The cost of that tagging is deferred, meaning it is added to the bill the owner must pay before the bureau will release the animal back into their custody. This power sits alongside a related tool in Section 3-135(b)(2): when the bureau has ordered special preventive measures for an animal under a containment order, it can require the owner to have the animal tattooed or electronically tagged at the owner's own expense if that is necessary for identification, investigation or enforcement.

Neither section creates a general microchipping mandate for every pet in the city; the tagging power only attaches once an animal has already been impounded or is already subject to a containment order for dangerous or nuisance behavior. Fees for tagging are separate from and in addition to license, inoculation, boarding and adoption fees set elsewhere in Section 3-136, reviewed annually by the city manager or a designee.