Pennsylvania pet owners who fail to get licenses for their dogs could face steep fines if they are caught.

Dog wardens will begin compliance checks in Carbon County the week of May 23 to make sure dogs are licensed.

Wardens will begin checking homes around the Jim Thorpe area to ensure owners have current licenses and rabies vaccinations for their dogs.

All dogs three months and older must be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year.

The cost of a license varies depending upon if your dog is spayed or neutered.

Dog licenses are $6.50 for a spayed or neutered dog, and $8.50 for other dogs. Older adults and people with disabilities may purchase a license for $4.50 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6.50 for others.

Violators can be cited with a maximum fine of $300 per violation plus court costs.

Additionally, all dogs and nonferal cats age 3 months and older must be vaccinated against rabies. Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain immunity.

Carbon County residents can purchase their dog licenses in person from the treasurer’s office, located in the administration building in Jim Thorpe, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; by mail at Carbon County Treasurer, P.O. Box 247, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229; or online at https://bit.ly/2uQRqwc or at any of the following locations: Bedrock Notary, 210 Delaware Ave., Palmerton; Palmerton Borough Building, 443 Delaware Ave., Palmerton; Bowmanstown Borough, 490 Ore St., Bowmanstown; Panther Valley Lumber, 99 Riley St., Lansford; Marzen Feed and Hardware, 75 Harrity Road, Lehighton; Halo Inc., 107 Carbon St., Weatherly; and Kidder Township Municipal Building, 10 Lake Harmony Road, Lake Harmony.

Checks should be made payable to Carbon County Treasurer.

For more information on dog laws and requirements, visit www.licenseyourdogPA.com.