Cat owners in HDB flats must microchip and license pets

Licensing will be free during the two-year transition period.

Cat owners living in HDB flats will need to get their pets a microchip and license once the government rolls out its permit guidelines on 1 September.

According to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), pet owners can apply for the licence online via the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS).

Before applying, owners must have a microchip implanted in their pet. First-time applicants also need to complete a one-time free online pet ownership course.

AVS announced a transition period from 1 September to 31 August 2026, during which it will issue all cat licenses for free.

After two years, fees will apply. Costs will match dog licensing fees, ranging from $15 to $460, depending on the number of pets and whether the animal is sterilised.

AVS urged cat owners to secure their licences before the end of the transition period as keeping unlicensed pets from 1 September 2026 onwards will be considered an offence.

Also to be implemented on 1 September is the limit on the number of pet cats in HDB flats and private premises.

“Up to two cats, as well as one dog of an approved breed (under the Housing and Development Board Animals Rules 1989), are allowed to be kept in any HDB residential unit. You can face a fine of up to S$4,000 if you fail to comply with HDB’s rule,” AVS said.

“A maximum of three cats and/or dogs are allowed to be kept in any one private (non-HDB residential, industrial or commercial) premises,” it added.

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AVS reminded owners to ensure their cats are in a safe environment and to protect their pets from hazards, like installing mesh, grilles, screens and other barriers.

They should also ensure their cats are under their control outdoors.

AVS reminded that the licensee may be liable for an offence if there is any breach of the cat-keeping rules or licensing conditions.

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