Columbia Same—Evidence prior to license issuance ordinance (§ 5-62)
Chapter 5: Animals and Fowl · Article III. Dogs, Cats and Other Animals
In short: To get a city animal license, owners must show proof of a rabies vaccination that will last the full license term. Without proof, the animal must be vaccinated at the owner's expense with a director-approved vaccine before the license is issued.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
Prior to issuing a license tax certificate and license tag, the deputy business license administrator shall require the owner to present satisfactory evidence that the animal has been vaccinated for rabies and that such vaccination, if any, will be effective during the full term for which such animal license is issued. If the owner cannot present such satisfactory evidence of such vaccination, the deputy shall, before issuing a license certificate, cause the animal to be vaccinated for rabies at the expense of the owner with a type of vaccine approved by the director. In evidence of such vaccination, the deputy shall issue to the owner an appropriate certificate of such vaccination bearing the date of vaccination, vaccination certificate number, and the name and address of the veterinarian.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 5-62
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.