Dog licenses and rabies rules in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh
Pennsylvania's two largest cities each run their own dog rules. Here is how they compare, with links to the sources.
Side by side
| Question | Philadelphia | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Who must comply | Dogs four months and older, per the city | Dog owners in the city; pages describe 1-year, 3-year and lifetime terms |
| Rabies | Dogs and cats must be vaccinated (Philadelphia Code 10-103) | Proof of current rabies vaccination is required |
| Deadline | 30 days after getting a dog or moving to the city | Not stated on the page we read |
| Leashes | Six feet or shorter in city parks and public | Dogs may not run unleashed on streets, sidewalks or other public places |
| Where to apply | ACCT Philly online, by mail or in person | City Bureau of Animal Care and Control |
Philadelphia details
The City of Philadelphia dog license page says you have 30 days from getting a dog, or moving to Philadelphia, to license it with the Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT Philly). The Philly311 licensing answer adds that proof of vaccination is requested at purchase though a current rabies vaccine is required, and Philadelphia Code 10-103 requires licensing and rabies vaccination.
For walking, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation dog regulations says a leash of six feet or shorter is the rule on Parks & Rec property unless posted otherwise, and lists seven authorized dog runs.
Pittsburgh details
The City of Pittsburgh pet owner page says you need proof of your dog's current rabies vaccination, notes that state law requires rabies shots at three months of age and states that dogs are not permitted to run unleashed on public streets, sidewalks, other public places or other people's property.
Elsewhere in Pennsylvania
Boroughs and townships write their own leash and nuisance codes, and county treasurers handle state licenses outside the big cities. Ask your municipal office for its animal ordinance before the dog comes home.
Living in Pennsylvania and ready to talk?
Share your Pennsylvania ZIP code and what the dog would be for. A professional who works near you can follow up.
Ask for a referral