Mobile Dog Grooming Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a mobile dog grooming in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $150–$600 est. 1–3 weeks for all registrations and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of California

3 stops

  1. No State Grooming License Required

    California does not require a state license for pet groomers. The CA Dept of Consumer Affairs does not regulate pet grooming as a licensed trade. Professional certifications (NDGAA, IPG, ISCC) are voluntary.

    Official government source

    N/AN/A

  2. California Seller's Permit (CDTFA)

    Pet grooming services are generally not subject to California sales tax, as services are not taxable unless specifically enumerated. However, if you sell grooming products (shampoos, accessories), you must collect sales tax on those product sales. Register with CDTFA if you have product sales.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

  3. Commercial Vehicle Registration (CA DMV)

    Mobile grooming vans operated commercially in California must be registered with the California DMV. Commercial registration may be required if the vehicle has a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 10,001 lbs or if it is used for hire. The CA DMV requires commercial liability insurance.

    Official government source

    $200–$500 annuallySame day at CA DMV office

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

2 stops

  1. City of Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate

    All businesses operating in the City of Los Angeles must register with the LA City Office of Finance. New businesses with less than $100,000 in gross receipts are exempt from the business tax for the first year. Register online through the LA Business Portal.

    Official government source

    $0 first year (under $100K gross receipts); $100–$400/year thereafter1–2 weeks

  2. LA County Dept of Animal Care and Control — Mobile Pet Service Compliance

    Mobile pet grooming businesses operating in LA County should confirm with the LA County Dept of Animal Care and Control whether any specific registration is required for commercial mobile pet services. LA County Animal Care ordinances (Title 10) govern animal businesses. Contact LA County Animal Care and Control at 562-728-4882.

    Official government source

    Varies (contact DACC for current requirements)1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $150–$600 · 1–3 weeks for all registrations and permits

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Official Sources

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