Pet Friendly Newport

We know that pets are important parts of our families and by extension, our community. 

As a City, our goal is to encourage responsible and enjoyable pet ownership through a mix of rules and amenities designed to make Newport a pet friendly community.

Registering Your Dog

Get that dog a license!

• Click Here to Appy for a Dog License

State law requires that every dog owner get a license for their dog each year. If your dog is 6 months or older, you need to get them a rabies vaccine and a license. You also need proof of current vaccinations to get a license. If you don't get your dog licensed, you could be subject to fines.

To obtain a license, please apply online or visit the City Clerk's Office, located on the Ground Floor of City Hall, 43 Broadway, to pick up a hard copy and mail it to the attention of the City Clerk's Office, 43 Broadway, Newport, R.I. 02840
 

Leash Laws

• State law requires that you have your dog on a leash when you're off your property.
• Your dog must be under control when they're not in your house or fenced in by a yard. Don't let your dog roam the neighborhood, get into trash, or bother the public in any way.
• The same rules apply when you're at the park with your dog. Responsible dog owners should respect the rights of others in the park.

Newport Dog Park

Who Let the Dogs Out?

We're building a BRAND NEW DOG PARK thanks to our partners at the Rhode Island Department of Transportation.

Once complete, this new Dog Park, located along the new multiuse trail along Farewell Street, will be a popular destination for both four-legged residents and their people throughout the year. Featuring approximately one acre, this fenced-in and lighted facility will offer plenty of room to roam as well as ample, free parking.

We'll have more details on the new park soon!

Mutt Mitt Program

The Mutt Mitt Program is a program designed to alleviate the nuisance of dog waste in public parks and fields. The City has 44 dispensers located in various public locations around the City, that are filled 3 times per week.

The Mutt Mitts themselves are a heavy-duty double-lined plastic bag which is placed over your hand and makes it easier for collection.

There are normally trash barrels near each dispenser.

City Ordinance requires dog owners by law to clean up after their pet, and disposing of the waste in proper receptacles.

In honor of your pet, the City offers a donation program to help offset the cost of the mutt-mitt refills. The average cost per year for mutt-mitts is $20,000. Donations can be made to the City of Newport, c/o Newport Public Services Department…please name your pet on your check.  Print Form
 

Report a Missing Pet

If you'd like to report a missing pet, please contact Animal Control at (401) 847-1306 ext. 2080.