Bolzano to Impose Daily Tax on Dogs Starting 2026

The northern Italian city of Bolzano will introduce a daily tax on visiting dogs beginning in 2026. Owners bringing their pets to this picturesque destination will be required to pay 1.50 euros (approximately $2) per day as part of a broader initiative aimed at managing the impact of tourism. This measure comes amid increasing concerns regarding overtourism in the region, renowned as a gateway to the stunning Dolomite Mountains.

Local dog owners will also bear a financial burden, required to pay an annual tax of 100 euros for each dog they own. The funds raised through these taxes are intended to cover street cleaning costs and support the development of parks specifically designed for dogs and their owners. However, there is speculation regarding potential restrictions on dogs in regular city parks, a detail that remains unresolved.

This new tax follows another controversial initiative that mandates dog owners to pay for DNA registration of their pets. The purpose of this measure is to identify and fine owners who fail to clean up after their dogs, with penalties reaching up to 600 euros for non-compliance. Provincial Councilor Luis Walcher, who championed the tax, argued that this initiative is a fair approach since it targets dog owners directly. “Otherwise, sidewalk cleaning would be the responsibility of the entire community,” he stated. “It must be said that the only filth on our city streets is dog waste.”

Opposition to the tax has emerged, particularly from animal rights advocates. Carla Rocchi, a representative of the national animal protection organization ENPA, expressed concern that the tax disproportionately affects families and tourists who choose to travel with their dogs. In her statement, she criticized the focus on taxation rather than on civic education and awareness initiatives. “The Province of Bolzano scores an own goal with the tax on dogs and even on four-legged tourists,” she remarked, highlighting that the measure could discourage responsible travel and potentially lead to increased abandonment of pets.

Rocchi emphasized the importance of animals as integral members of families, arguing that taxing them does not resolve the underlying issues of incivility associated with a minority of dog owners. She called for a more constructive approach that fosters a respectful relationship between tourists and the local community.

As Bolzano prepares to implement this tax, the debate surrounding the responsibility of dog owners and the impact of tourism continues to evolve. While the city aims to balance the interests of residents and visitors, the effectiveness of these measures will likely be scrutinized by both locals and tourists alike.