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Las Vegas, NV Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Applies to
dogs and cats over 4 months old
Effective date
August 1, 2024
Registration required with
chip company and Animal Regulation Officer
Contact update window
30 days after any change
New-resident exemption
first 30 days in City

Summary

Las Vegas requires owners to microchip every dog and cat over four months old and register the chip number with the Animal Regulation Officer, or face misdemeanor citations.

(A)Except as otherwise provided in this Section, it is unlawful for any person to own or harbor a dog or cat over the age of four months unless the animal has been implanted with microchip identification in accordance with this Section and this Title. ... (B)The owner of a dog or cat that has been implanted with microchip identification shall register the microchip number and the owner's contact information with a microchip registration company, as well as with the Animal Regulation Officer.

Source: City of Las Vegas Animal ServicesView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 61).

Full Breakdown

City law makes it unlawful to own or harbor a dog or cat over four months old in Las Vegas unless it carries implanted microchip identification, per LVMC 7.15.010(A). Owners must register the microchip number and their contact information with both a microchip registration company and the Animal Regulation Officer, updating that contact information within thirty days of any change. The requirement doesn't apply to animals whose owners have lived in the City fewer than thirty days, or to animals brought in temporarily and exclusively for a show or exhibition. The rule took effect August 1, 2024.

Violations & Fines

Owning or harboring an unchipped dog or cat over four months old is a misdemeanor citation, but it's dismissed if you prove the animal was microchipped within thirty days after the citation was served.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to microchip my dog or cat in Las Vegas?
Yes. LVMC 7.15.010 makes it unlawful to own or harbor a dog or cat over four months old within the City without an implanted, registered microchip.
What if I just moved to Las Vegas with my pet?
You're exempt for your first thirty days of residency; after that the microchipping requirement applies under LVMC 7.15.010(E).
What happens if I'm cited for an unchipped pet?
The citation is dismissed if you prove the animal was implanted with a microchip within thirty days after the citation was served, per LVMC 7.15.010(F).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Las Vegas

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Microchipping in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Clark County handle microchipping.

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