29 Sep
Chennai Sets INR 10,000 Fine for Abandoning Pet Dogs and Cats
Chennai: The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has approved a INR 10,000 fine for pet owners who abandon their registered and microchipped dogs or cats in public places. The new penalty will come into effect from October 1, 2026.
The decision was passed through a resolution at the GCC’s monthly council meeting on September 25. The corporation had earlier proposed an INR 25,000 fine, but the amount was later reduced to INR 10,000 following recommendations from its standing committees.
The GCC will use the pet’s microchip to trace its owner. If a registered pet is found abandoned on a road or in another public place, officials can scan the microchip and access the owner’s details. The fine will be collected by GCC veterinary, medical and sanitary officers using point-of-sale machines.
Pet registration and microchipping have been mandatory in Chennai since 2025. According to the GCC, 78,238 pet registrations had been recorded between October 3, 2025 and July 30, 2026. The system is also intended to support vaccination tracking and help prevent pet abandonment.
The corporation will also continue its existing INR 5,000 fine for unlicensed pet dogs and INR 500 fine for dogs being walked without a leash.
AUTHOR’S BIO
Carry My Pet
Passionate pet enthusiasts and globetrotters, dedicated to easing furry friends' journeys worldwide. Penning tales of compassion at CarryMyPet, where every relocation is a tail-wagging adventure.