Show All Answers

1. Why do I have to register my dog?

State of New Hampshire law requires that all owners of dogs four months and older shall annually be registered, numbered, described and licensed in the Town in which the dog is kept. Regardless of when the license is obtained, the license is valid from May 1 of each year to the following April 30.

In accordance with State law, owners must present a valid rabies certificate and, if applicable, a neuter/spay certificate. Veterinarians are required by State law to notify the Town Clerk when a rabies vaccination is issued. When this occurs, our office will send you a notice to license your dog if your dog is not already licensed with us.

2. What are the fees for licensing my dog?

• Puppy (ages 4 to 7 months) $7.50
• Neutered or Spayed Dog $7.50
• Un-Neutered or Un-Spayed Dog $10
• Dogs of Senior Citizens (defined as an owner who is 65+ years old) $3
• "Kennel" License for 5 or More Dogs $21

These fees are not pro-rated for portions of the licensing year.

3. How do I license a dog that is new to me?

You should license your new dog as soon as possible. Your license will be valid from the time the license is issued until the next April 30. You will need to provide a valid rabies certificate and, if applicable, a neuter/spay certificate. You may visit Town Hall (Monday through Friday; 8:30 am to 4:30 pm) to license your dog or complete the Dog License Registration Form (PDF) and mail this form to Town Hall with a copy of any applicable forms and the licensing fee via a check made payable to the Town of Hanover.

4. What happens if I don’t license my dog?

Failure to license your dog is a violation of State law. Owners who fail to register their dog by May 1 will be subject to fines and a court summons. Late charges are assessed at $1 per month, per dog. Civil forfeiture fines will also be assessed in the amount of $25 per dog, which will be payable within 15 days of receipt of the notice of failure to register. Failure to pay late charges and civil forfeiture fees within the 15 day period will result in a summons to appear in court.

5. What do I do if I no longer own my dog?

Contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 603-640-3200 or by e-mail, and we will update your record so that you do not receive any further notices for the dog(s) you no longer own.