Tshwane's New Dog Law: Microchip Now or Pay Fines
As of October 28, 2025, every dog over six months old in the City of Tshwane must be microchipped and registered with the municipal database to avoid fines ranging from R500 to R2,000.
A microchip implant, which costs between R150 to R450, can reunite lost pets 70% faster, according to Johannesburg SPCA data. Additionally, a R1,200 GPS collar can provide real-time tracking.
- Microchipping is compulsory for dogs over six months old.
- Fines for non-compliance range from R500 to R2,000.
- GPS collars are available for real-time tracking at R1,200.
Microchips cut reunification time, with chipped dogs returning home 70% more often.
Cape Town's similar law, implemented in 2022, has reduced stray numbers by 40%. Dog owners in Tshwane have 90 days to comply with the new rule, which aims to address the issue of dog theft and stray numbers in the city.
Author's note: Tshwane's new dog law requires microchipping to ensure pet safety.