BMC Rules & Guidelines for Pet Parents & Feeders in Mumbai (2025 Update)

 

Caring for a pet in Mumbai is a joy — but it also comes with a set of responsibilities. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has established clear rules and guidelines to ensure that pet parents, pet feeders, and the community coexist peacefully. These cover everything from dog licenses, vaccinations, leash rules, pet feeding rights, and cleanliness norms.

If you’re a pet parent or animal lover in Mumbai, here’s everything you need to know about the BMC pet rules to avoid penalties and ensure responsible pet care.

1. Mandatory Dog License in Mumbai 

According to the BMC Act, every dog in Mumbai must have a valid license.

• Who needs it? Every dog parent, whether you live in an apartment, bungalow, or housing society.
• Where to apply? At the BMC Health Department of your ward office or via the MCGM online portal.
• Documents required:
  
• Dog’s vaccination certificate (especially against rabies)
  
• A passport-size photo of the dog
• Proof of residence (Aadhar, electricity bill, etc.)

1. License validity: 1 year, renewable annually

2. Fee structure: Around ₹75–₹100 per year (may vary).

2. Vaccinations: A Must for Every Pet

BMC emphasizes regular vaccination for all dogs and cats to protect both pets and humans.

• Compulsory vaccines for dogs:
  
• Rabies (annual or as prescribed by your vet)
  
• DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
• For cats:
  
• Rabies
  
• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
  

 You must show an up-to-date vaccination certificate when applying for or renewing a dog license.

 

3. Walking Your Dog: Leash Rules in Mumbai

Not everyone is comfortable around pets, and that’s why BMC requires dogs to be walked on a leash in public places.

• Always keep your dog on a leash while outdoors.
  
• Use a muzzle if your dog is aggressive or tends to bite.
  
• Avoid letting your dog roam freely in society compounds or public gardens without supervision.

Housing societies cannot ban pets, but they can insist that dogs be leashed in common areas.

 

4. Clean-Up Rules: Carry a Poop Bag 

One of the most important responsibilities of pet parents is to clean up after their pets.

• BMC can fine pet parents who leave dog poop on streets, gardens, or society premises.
  
• Always carry poop bags or scoops when walking your dog.
  
• Dispose of waste in the nearest BMC garbage bin.

Responsible pet parenting helps keep Mumbai clean and avoids conflicts with neighbors.

5. Housing Society Rules vs. BMC Guidelines

Many housing societies in Mumbai impose unfair restrictions on pets. But according to Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) guidelines:

• Societies cannot ban pets from living in apartments.
  
• Elevator use cannot be denied to pets.
  
• Societies cannot force you to carry your pet in service lifts only.
  
• No society can impose fines for keeping pets.

However, societies can request pet parents to:

• Use a leash in common areas.
  
• Prevent nuisance barking at odd hours.
  
• Clean up after their pets.

6. Rules for Pet Feeders in Mumbai 

Many Mumbaikars feed stray dogs and cats, but this often leads to disputes. To protect both feeders and residents, the Bombay High Court and BMC have issued clear guidelines:

• Feeding strays is not illegal.
  
• Feeders must feed strays at designated spots decided by the society/residents.
  
• Feeding should not cause a nuisance or dirty common areas.
  
• Societies cannot harass or stop feeders from giving food to animals.

 It’s always better to coordinate with neighbors and fix a clean, safe feeding spot.

 

7. Penalties for Violating BMC Pet Rules

Breaking BMC rules can result in fines or legal action. Common violations include:

• Keeping an unlicensed dog
  
• Not vaccinating pets
  
• Allowing dogs to roam unleashed in public
  
• Not cleaning up pet waste
  
• Harassing pet feeders or preventing feeding

Fine amounts vary depending on the violation and ward-level rules.

 

8. Why These Rules Matter 

These rules are not just about regulations — they ensure:

• Better pet health through vaccination and licensing.
  
• Public safety by controlling stray populations and preventing rabies.
  
• Peaceful coexistence between pet parents, feeders, and society members.
  
• Cleaner surroundings when pet waste is properly managed.

By following BMC guidelines, we can make Mumbai a pet-friendly and people-friendly city.

 

9. Tips for Responsible Pet Parenting in Mumbai 

• Renew your dog’s license every year.
  
• Maintain updated vaccination records.
  
• Always leash your pet outdoors.
  
• Carry poop bags whenever you step out.
  
• Be considerate of neighbors and ensure your pet does not cause disturbance.
  
• If you feed strays, keep the spot clean and safe.

 

Conclusion

Being a pet parent or animal lover in Mumbai comes with joy, responsibility, and legal obligations. The BMC pet rules — covering licenses, vaccinations, leash use, cleanliness, and feeding — are designed to keep pets, people, and communities safe.

By following these rules, you not only avoid penalties but also ensure that Mumbai becomes a more inclusive, pet-friendly city where humans and animals thrive together.

Whether you’re a proud pet parent or a kind-hearted feeder, remember: responsibility and compassion go paw-in-paw.