XL Bully Exemption Certificate

XL Bully dog ownership

The application process for XL Bully exemption certificates is closed. If you own an XL Bully dog, you should read guidance on nidirect (link opens in new window).

When you have an exemption certificate

If you have an Exemption Certificate for your XL Bully dog, you must follow these rules during the dog's lifetime:

• keep the dog licensed at all times
• keep the dog at the same address as the exemption certificate-holder - you can temporarily keep it at a different address for up to 30 days in a 12-month period
• let us know if you permanently change address – you don't need to tell us if you temporarily keep the dog at another address for up to 30 days in a 12-month period 
• let us know if the dog dies or is exported
• keep the dog muzzled in public places – it's best to use a muzzle that lets the dog pant, breathe and drink easily 
• keep the dog on a lead in public places – someone over 16 years old must securely hold the lead 
• keep the dog in secure conditions so it cannot escape.

If we ask, you must give us:

• access to the dog to read its microchip 
• the exemption certificate within five days of our request 

If you don't follow these rules, your exemption certificate will not be valid, and your dog could be seized.

Child safety around prohibited breeds of dog

DAERA will introduce a new law to protect children from prohibited dogs in the home. 

From 1 November 2026, you must not allow a child under 12 to have unsupervised close contact with a prohibited dog in a private garden or house. Your exemption certificate will include this condition. 

DAERA will provide more information before they introduce this condition.

Renew your dog licence

An annual licence for an XL Bully type dog costs £12.50

You can renew your dog licence online:

Apply or renew your dog licence 

or at our offices:

Cecil Ward Building
4-10 Linenhall Street
Belfast
BT2 8BP

Our office opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 8.30am to 5pm, and Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.