Animal Control Laws Licensing Beginning July 1, 2001, the town of Huntersville will offer full-service animal control.  This means that our residents no longer have to register their dogs and cats with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Control.  Registration will be annual and there will be no cost.  Registration cards will be available at the police department and both animal hospitals in town.  Simply have someone at the veterinarian's office verify an up to date rabies inoculation or bring the paperwork to the police department and one of the employees will verify it for you.  For more information about the Animal Services provided by the town of Huntersville visit the Animal Services home page.   Leash Law The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have strict leash laws that apply to all animals except cats (see the nuisance animal section for laws pertaining to cats). Animals must be on a leash, contained within a fence or an operable and marked invisible fence. An animal may be loose in its own yard if there is an adult (18 years or older) present with the animal and the animal responds to direct verbal commands of the person. All regulations aim to protect the health and safety of our citizens. Please be a responsible pet owner and abide by the law. Violations will be investigated and stiff fines may be applied. Fines range from a $50.00 citation for the first violation and up to a $500.00 citation and permanent seizure of the animal for a fifth violation. For more information visit the Charlotte-Mecklenburg web page - Animal Laws