Italian City Introduces Daily Tax For Dogs Visiting With Owners, Here's Why

Italy is a dream destination for many. From Tuscany's rolling hills to Venice's sparkling canals, every corner of the European country feels like a page from a fairytale novel. But travellers wishing to take a serene Italian trip with their pet dogs, we bear some news. Bolzano, a city tucked away in the northern part of the country and home to the breathtaking Dolomite mountains, has announced a new rule. Starting from 2026, a dog tax will be levied for both locals and visitors arriving in the Italian city. Find out more about it below.

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Why Are Dogs Being Taxed In Bolzano?

Bolzano. Photo Credit: Pexels

While local dog owners will be charged 100 euros per year, pet-parents visiting Bolzano will have to pay a daily fee of 1.50 euros. The initiative is not only aimed at curbing the growing number of visitors with their pet dogs but also to fund essential services in the city, such as street cleaning, building dog-exclusive parks and eliminating dog-related water issues, reports CNN.

The new tax law comes on the heels of another controversial rule. Dog owners are required to pay a designated amount to register their pets' DNA. This move has been rolled out so that the authorities can identify the owner and issue a fine if their dog's waste is left uncollected. At present, if a pet parent fails to pick up dog litter, it can cause a penalty of up to 600 euros per incident.

According to Bolzano's Provincial Councillor, Luis Walcher, who was the one to propose the rule, owners who have already registered their dogs' DNA will be exempt from the new tax for two years. "This is a fair measure because it concerns dog owners exclusively. Otherwise, sidewalk cleaning would be the responsibility of the entire community, when it must be said that the only filth on our city streets is dog waste," he said in a statement.

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More About Bolzano

Bolzano. Photo Credit: Pexels

If you are planning a Bolzano escapade, then expect to be greeted by colourful medieval buildings, cosy cafes and pristine mountain views. You can wander through the woods by going on an adventurous hike or enjoy the surroundings in a cable car ride. Apart from admiring the architecturally marvellous South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, you can also shop your heart's content at the vibrant markets.