Frequently Asked Questions about

The Voice and Sight Dog Tag Program

Following are some frequently asked questions about the new City of Boulder Voice and Sight Dog Tag program. If your question isn’t answered here, please see the Tag Program brochure420.68 KB. Feel free to submit your query online using this form, or call 303-441-3440. Image - Voice and Sight tags

Can I walk my dog off-leash within the city limits of Boulder after I have purchased a tag? The voice and sight control tag applies only to City of Boulder lands where a leash is not required. A leash is always required within the city limits of Boulder. Also, OSMP trails posted as requiring a leash prohibit the use of voice and sight control.

Can I carry the tag instead of displaying it on my dog? No. The tag must be displayed on your dog so that it is visible. If the dog is small or the tag seems uncomfortable, guardians can try using a harness with the tag attached or affixing the tag directly under the collar. New participants who registered online must wait to receive the tag in the mail before walking their dog under voice and sight control. A receipt of registration is not sufficient. Dog guardians must display the tag on the dog at all times.

What does the registration fee cover?
The registration fee ($15 for residents of Boulder, $18.75 for non-residents) includes registration and one dog tag. Additional tags can be purchased for $5 each.

Do I have to renew my registration at some point?

No. The program does not require participants to renew tags. Dog guardians will only need to purchase additional tags if the tag is lost or if another dog is acquired that they would like to walk off leash.

How do I purchase additional or replacement tags?

Dog guardians can purchase additional or replacement tags online. Dog guardians must provide the primary member household information and pay by credit card. Please allow seven to ten business days for delivery.

Is participating in the program a requirement or just a request?

It is the law. Participation in the program is a requirement of voice and sight control as stated in City ordinance Boulder Revised Code (BRC) 6-1-16 and 6-13-2 through 6-13-5.

Is the tag a "license" or unique to a specific dog?

The tag signifies that the dog guardian has registered and is participating in the program. The tag is not specific to a dog. The City of Boulder Voice and Sight tag does not replace the need for licensing your dog in the city. Click here for more information about obtaining a City of Boulder dog license.

I paid the fee and bought extra tags – where will my money go?
The money from fees and tags will help support the Open Space and Mountain Parks Voice and Sight Tag program.

Is there a test or certification process associated with getting the dog tags?
No. This is not a certification program. By registering for the program and displaying the tags on your dog, you are simply stating that you have seen the video on voice and sight control and agree to walk your dog under voice and sight control terms while on OSMP lands.

I cannot watch the video or register for the program on my computer. It’s a Macintosh. What can I do?
The Safari browser on Macs will not work on this program. You can download the Firefox browser.

What should I do if I find a lost dog with a Voice and Sight Control tag?

You may call our office, and we will attempt to contact the dog's owner. However, we will not share the registrant's contact information without their permission. You may also take the dog to your local animal shelter.

Am I protected from getting a ticket if my dog has a Voice and Sight Control tag?

No. A dog guardian who participates in the program and walks a dog under voice and sight control in areas where it is allowed may still be issued for any violation of the following standards:

The dog guardian is walking more than two dogs under voice and sight control;
The dog guardian is not carrying a leash for each dog being walked under voice and sight control;
The dog guardian fails to display a voice and sight tag on dog;
The dog is not within the guardian’s sight and under voice control at all times;
The dog does not come to and stay with the guardian immediately upon command;
The dog charges, chases or otherwise displays aggression towards any person, or behaves in a way that any reasonable person may find harassing or disturbing;
The dog charges, chases or otherwise displays aggression towards any dog;
The dog chases, harasses or disturbs wildlife or livestock.

What are the penalties?

The maximum penalty for a first violation is a fine of $50. For a second violation within 24 months the maximum penalty is a fine of $100. A third violation within the same 24 months will result in a fine of not less than $200 and revocation of the privilege to use voice and sight control.

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Last Updated on Friday, 22 February 2013 15:46