Report a Dog Bite in Surrey - City Bylaw Guide

Public Safety British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

If you or someone else is bitten by a dog in Surrey, British Columbia, report the incident promptly to the City of Surrey so bylaw officers and animal services can investigate and reduce public risk. This guide explains where to report, what information to provide, likely enforcement paths, and how to appeal or seek further help. It draws on the City of Surrey animal and bylaw enforcement resources and explains typical actions after a complaint is received.[1][2]

Where to report a dog bite

Report dog bites to Surrey Bylaw Enforcement or the City animal services unit. Provide your contact details, date/time/location of the incident, owner and dog information (if known), photos of injuries or property damage, and any witness names. You can report online, by phone, or in person depending on the service page listed below.[3]

Report bites promptly to preserve evidence and allow timely investigation.
  • Phone Surrey Bylaw Enforcement or Animal Services as listed on the official pages.
  • Submit an online complaint form or email with photos and a clear account of the incident.[3]
  • Preserve medical records, wound photos, and any vet reports if the animal was taken for observation.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for dog bites in Surrey is managed by City Bylaw Enforcement and Animal Services. The City enforces animal-related bylaws that set standards for dog control, licensing, and public safety. Where the official bylaw text or fine schedule is not explicitly posted on the public information pages, the specific fine amounts and escalation details are not specified on the cited page; contact Bylaw Enforcement for exact penalty schedules.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; contact Bylaw Enforcement for current amounts.[2]
  • Escalation: first and repeat offence practices are not specified on the cited page; enforcement may escalate for repeated breaches.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to muzzle, leashing requirements, dog seizure, court action, or surrender orders may be used depending on risk.
  • Enforcer: City of Surrey Bylaw Enforcement and Animal Services investigate complaints and issue orders or tickets.[2]
  • Inspection & complaints: submit evidence via the official complaint/reporting page or contact the bylaw office directly.[3]
  • Appeals/review: appeal processes and time limits are not specified on the cited pages; the bylaw or ticket will state appeal deadlines and procedures when issued.
  • Defences/discretion: officers may consider circumstances such as provocation, owner cooperation, or a reasonable excuse; specific defences are not detailed on the cited pages.
If a bylaw ticket is issued it will state appeal instructions and deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes complaint/reporting forms and instructions for animal concerns on its website; specific dog-bite claim forms are not separately published on the cited pages. For licensing, tags or transfer forms see the City animal services pages or contact the licensing office for the current process and fees.[1]

Action steps after a bite

  • Seek medical care and document treatment and any lost wages or impacts.
  • Report the incident to Surrey Bylaw Enforcement or animal services immediately.[3]
  • Collect evidence: photos, witness statements, and owner/contact details.
  • Follow bylaw directions about quarantine, vet checks, or seizure if ordered.

FAQ

Who enforces dog-bite complaints in Surrey?
The City of Surrey Bylaw Enforcement and Animal Services investigate dog-bite complaints and may issue tickets, orders, or take other enforcement actions.[2]
Do I need to file a police report?
File with Bylaw Enforcement for civil/bylaw action. If the bite is severe or criminal conduct is suspected, contact the police as well.
Are there fees or fines listed online?
The public information pages do not list exact fine amounts; fines and fees are set in bylaw schedules or ticket documents and are not specified on the cited pages.[2]

How-To

  1. Get medical attention for injuries and keep records.
  2. Contact Surrey Bylaw Enforcement or animal services to report the bite via the official complaint channel.[3]
  3. Provide detailed information: date, time, location, owner name, dog description, and witnesses.
  4. Submit photos and medical reports by email or upload through the online complaint form if available.
  5. Follow any bylaw orders such as quarantine or leashing until the matter is resolved.
  6. If a ticket or order is issued, follow the notice for payment or appeal instructions within the stated time limits.
Keep copies of all reports, medical bills, and correspondence in case of appeal or civil action.

Key Takeaways

  • Report dog bites promptly to Surrey Bylaw Enforcement or Animal Services.
  • Preserve medical records and evidence to support enforcement or claims.
  • Exact fines and escalation details are not specified on the public pages; contact the City for official schedules.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Surrey - Dogs and pets
  2. [2] City of Surrey - Municipal bylaws
  3. [3] Report an animal concern - City of Surrey

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