LA County Title 10.20.355 requires microchipping for all dogs and cats released from shelters and, by recent expansion, for any dog or cat receiving a county license. DACC scans every impounded animal for owner reunification.
Under LACO Title 10.20.355, every dog or cat adopted, redeemed, or released from a DACC shelter must be implanted with a microchip registered to the new owner. The county has expanded the rule so that any dog or cat receiving a DACC license must also be microchipped, and owners must keep registry contact information current. DACC officers scan every impounded animal at intake to speed reunification. The mandate applies across unincorporated LA County and 45 contract cities; rescues and licensed breeders releasing animals are also covered.
Failing to microchip a licensed pet, or letting registry data go stale, draws citations starting near fifty dollars and rising for repeats. Animals impounded without traceable chips may incur extra fees before release to owner.
See how Santa Monica's microchipping rules stack up against other locations.
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