The municipal ordinance on pet ownership and animal welfare in Dénia is updated to recognize animals as sentient beings, aligning with European and national legislation.
The new regulation strengthens animal protection and includes measures such as the requirement to carry water to clean up urine, the prohibition of feeding animals in public spaces, and the mandatory registration of pets. Additionally, it regulates the control of feline colonies, the use of dog parks, and the activities of associations and breeders, promoting responsible and respectful coexistence.
The Dénia City Council unanimously approved, on May 30th, 2024, the initial modification of the municipal ordinance on pet ownership and animal welfare. This update adapts local regulations to new legal and social criteria that recognize animals as sentient beings and reinforces protection and responsibility in their care. It establishes several obligations and regulations:
Main Obligations
Mandatory Registration:
• All dogs must be registered in the municipal census.
• The maximum period is 30 days after the animal is identified with a microchip.
• This applies to residents and visitors who stay more than 3 months in Dénia.
Cleaning:
• Owners must always carry a bottle of water to clean up their dogs' urine.
• It is mandatory to pick up dog feces in public spaces.
Health:
• Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and have a health card.
Control:
• It is prohibited to leave dogs unattended in public spaces.
Prohibitions
• Feeding animals in the street.
• Leaving dogs alone locked in vehicles.
Sanctions
Violations of these rules may result in fines that vary according to severity:
• Fines ranging from 100 to 750 euros for minor infractions, such as not carrying water to clean urine or not vaccinating the animal.
• Fines of up to 3,000 euros for not picking up feces.
• Fines of up to 10,000 euros for leaving dogs unattended.
Other Provisions
• The City Council is responsible for controlling feline colonies.
• Rules have been established for the use of dog parks.
This regulation in Dénia regarding pets and their owners aims to promote responsible pet ownership, improve coexistence in public spaces, and ensure animal welfare in Dénia.

