A. Any adult dog or cat which is off the premises of its owner must be licensed and have a current license tag attached to the collar or harness which is worn by the dog or cat. If any dog and/or cat which is required to be licensed is found without a current license tag, it may be seized and impounded by the animal control agency or the Pierce County Sheriff, provided, such seizure and impoundment will not preclude the issuance of a civil infraction. Hunting dogs, during a controlled hunt, need not wear a license tag.

B. No more than five dogs and/or cats may be individually licensed at a residence in Pierce County. Dogs and cats are exempt from the above licensing provisions when they are in the custody of a recognized animal rescue group or in a kennel licensed by the Pierce County Auditor. In order to qualify as a recognized rescue group, proof of registration with the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to IRC 501(c)(3) must be submitted to the Pierce County licensing authority by the group.