Animal Control & Animal Impound Shelter
The City of Pine Springs works on a contractual basis with Animal Control Services, Inc. for animal control services and Hugo Animal Hospital (dba Otter lake Animal Care Center) for impound services. Animal-related complaints should be directed to the Washington County Sheriff's Department dispatch at 651-439-9381.
We encourage all residents to be good neighbors by picking up after pets, keeping them within your property lines (unless leashed), and by not letting your dog(s) bark, cry, or continuously or intermittently howl.
Feel free to read the current animal control ordinance (PDF file).
FAQ
What types of animals require a license?
Dogs and cats are required to have a city issued license which comes with a collar tag. Download the Domestic Animal License Application (PDF). A certificate of rabies vaccination is required to issue a license. A separate application must be made for each animal. It’s not required, but if your animal is lost, it may help to have a photo that can be used for identification. Please include a photo, if possible, attached to your application. License your domestic animal at Pine Springs City Hall.
All licenses are valid for one year from June 1 to the following May 31. License applications should be made from May 1 through May 31 each year or during the year whenever you first plan to have the animal at your residence.
Most animals, other than dogs or cats, are prohibited and will not be licensed. Please see the Animal Control Ordinance.
For a first time license, it’s best to visit City Hall so that you can obtain your license tag. It will not be mailed to you.
For license renewals, you could mail your application and fee payment form to City Hall:
City of Pine Springs
P.O. Box 487
Willernie, MN 55090
What fees are involved for licensing or recovery of an animal from the impound?
For license fees, animal control service fees, or impound fees, see the City Fee Schedule.
Do you allow kennels?
Kennels are permitted in the City of Pine Springs. Every animal in the kennel must be licensed according to the Animal Control ordinance.
Do you have a leash law?
The City does have a law against animals running at large but does not have a specific leash law. Walking your animal off your property without a leash is permissible as long as it’s within your control. Please be a considerate neighbor by cleaning up after your pet!
How many dogs/cats are allowed?
You can have up to three animals in your home, which may include a combination of both dogs and cats.
Who do I call if my pet is lost?
Call Otter Lake Animal Care at 651-426-8871 to inquire about a lost dog or cat that may have been picked up.
How long is an animal kept at the impound?
An animal will be kept until the expiration of any quarantine period, if any, or for a period of five (5) business days whichever is longer.
Who do I call to report a dead/sick animal on a city street?
Public Works only removes dead deer from city right-of-ways. Call 651-770-5720 to report a dead deer on city streets.
For dead deer on county roadways, such as Hilton Trail, or for all other dead or sick animals call the Washington County Sheriffs Dispatch at 651-439-9381.