No, you won’t have to get a licence for your feline in Delta.
That’s according to a staff response to a recent letter to council from a resident requesting the city look at requiring licenses for more than just dogs.
Saying cities that require cat licenses have seen a significant reduction in the number of cats in shelters, the resident asked why dog owners and other taxpayers should carry the burden.
Delta staff noted cats in Delta must be spayed or neutered and marked with permanent identification in order to be permitted outdoors.
An intact cat must be kept indoors and are subject to a $100 permit fee.
The City of Delta has taken this position because dogs, unlike cats, typically pose a greater risk of injury to the public and are therefore subject to additional regulation and administrative costs, staff explained.
“Bylaw inspectors are often required to deal with dogs that are large, aggressive, injured or neglected. The licensing fees offset these costs, ascertain ownership and provide a data base to assist with investigations. An amendment to the Animal Control Bylaw requiring licensing for cats and other animals is therefore not recommended at this time.”
Delta council last looked at the possibility of licensing cats back in 2010.
