That notice in the mail isn't a scam, your pet really does need a license
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If you live in Charlotte and have a pet, you may have received a "notice to license your pet" from CMPD Animal Care & Control.
Why it matters: Many readers told us they thought the notice was a scam because the notice's return address was for Irving, Texas. We reached out to CMPD AC&C, who assured us these notices aren't a scam.
Context: CMPD AC&C contracts out to Texas-based PetData, an AC&C spokesperson tells Axios.
- AC&C has used PetData for nearly two decades, which does come at a cost to CMPD ($180,000 for fiscal year 2025).
- Total sales for the licenses in 2023 were $533,656, per AC&C.
- License fees go to the City of Charlotte, which provides AC&C's operating budget.
How it works: A pet license is required for dogs, cats and ferrets at least four months old in Mecklenburg County. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is required to purchase a license.
- You can purchase a license by mail or online from PetData, or you can stop by the animal shelter to purchase or renew the license.
The intrigue: Reddit is full of people saying they never have their pets licensed. Some I've spoken with said they received a notice in the mail and paid it, no questions asked. Others have told me they didn't feel inclined to pay it because their pets are indoor or they were afraid it was a scam.
- One person shared her dog was attacked and when CMPD came out, the process was seamless because their dog was licensed.
By the numbers: License fees start at $10 for a one-year license for a pet that has been spayed/neutered, or you can license your pet for three years for $25.
- Pets that have not been spayed/neutered require a $30 annual license. Fees haven't changed in years.
- People age 62 and older with a spayed/neutered pet are not required to pay a fee. You can find a list of requirements here.
- AC&C tells Axios they hope the price difference encourages people to get their pets spayed/neutered.
The bottom line: "This is not something we go door to door checking," an AC&C spokesperson tells Axios.
- But if they're called, they will check for a pet's license, and if a pet doesn't have one, they'd issue a warning citation if it's the first time dealing with an individual, giving them time to become compliant.