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Louisville, KY Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)

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

Key Facts

Requirement
Microchip with registered ID number
Who must comply
Owners of dogs/cats 3+ months old
Max fine
$500 per occurrence
Update deadline
30 days after contact/ownership change
Enforcing agency
Metro Animal Services (MAS)

Summary

Louisville Metro requires every dog and cat to carry a registered microchip, with fines up to $500 per violation for noncompliance.

A person who owns a dog or cat in Jefferson County shall ensure that each dog or cat owned by that person bears a permanent means of identification through a microchip, as defined by this chapter, implanted in the dog or cat which bears a registered identification number... It shall be unlawful for a person to own a dog or cat three months of age or older which is kept in the county and does not bear a permanent means of identification as provided in subsection (A). A person violating subsection (A) may be fined up to $500.00 per occurrence.

Source: Louisville Metro Animal ServicesView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-47: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ordinances passed by the Council and approved by the Mayor as of July 1, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Jefferson County owners must have their dog or cat implanted with a microchip bearing a registered ID number, and keep contact information current with both the microchip registry and Metro Animal Services. Owning a dog or cat three months or older without this permanent ID is unlawful and can draw a fine up to $500 per occurrence. Narrow exceptions cover animals whose owners are new residents (under 30 days), nonresidents keeping the animal temporarily, or animals recently found or abandoned.

Violations & Fines

Up to $500 per occurrence for a dog or cat lacking a registered microchip, enforced by Louisville Metro Animal Services (MAS).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every dog and cat in Louisville need a microchip?
Yes, once the animal reaches three months old, unless the owner qualifies for a short-term residency or temporary-custody exception under § 91.020(C).
What happens if I move and don't update my microchip info?
You must update your address and phone number with the microchip registry and MAS within 30 days of the change, or you risk being out of compliance.

Sources & Official References

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All Louisville rules

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