DC strongly encourages but does not legally require microchipping pets. All licensed DC dogs receive a license tag, and shelters typically microchip animals before adoption to support return-to-owner programs.
DC Code 8-1804.01 requires dog licensing with a current rabies tag, but microchipping itself is not mandatory for owners. The Humane Rescue Alliance routinely microchips adopted dogs and cats and registers chips with national databases. DC residents can register their chip information with HRA for free. Lost pets brought to the shelter are scanned on intake; chipped pets are typically returned within hours, while unchipped strays may be held for the statutory five-day stray period before becoming available for adoption.
Unlicensed dog: 25 dollars first offense, escalating per DC Code 8-1808; failure to update microchip registration is not a citation but slows return-to-owner outcomes if pets stray.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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