Pet Sitting Service Permit Requirements in San Jose, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting service in San Jose, Santa Clara County, California.

$100 -- $600 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from a home or commercial facility 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 15, 2026.

San Jose / Santa Clara County Requirements

2 requirements

San Jose — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

Pet sitting businesses operating in San Jose — including dog walking, in-home pet care, and pet transportation — must obtain a general business license or occupational tax certificate from the city or county. Home-based pet sitters may need a Home Occupation Permit if clients or their pets visit your residence. Check with the Santa Clara County licensing office for specific requirements.

$50–$350/year depending on city fee schedule1–3 weeks

Official government source

San Jose / Santa Clara County — Animal Care Facility Permit (if boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or at a commercial facility in San Jose, you may need an animal care facility, kennel, or pet boarding permit from the city or county animal control authority. Regulations vary significantly by municipality. Home-based boarding of a small number of animals (typically 1–3) may be exempt, but commercial-scale boarding requires a permit and inspection.

$50–$300 (permit fee)1–4 weeks

Official government source

California State Requirements

2 requirements

California — Pet Sitting License Requirements

California does not require a state license for pet sitting or dog walking. If you operate a commercial boarding facility, you must comply with local animal control ordinances. The California Department of Consumer Affairs does not license pet sitters. Home-based boarding may trigger local kennel permit requirements in San Jose.

No fee for in-home sitters (commercial kennel licenses vary)N/A for individual in-home sitters

Official government source

California Department of Tax and Fee Administration — Seller's Permit

Pet sitting and dog walking services are generally not subject to sales tax in California. However, if you sell pet products (food, leashes, accessories) in addition to services, those sales may be taxable at the applicable rate of 7.25% state + 0.25% local. Register with the California revenue department to confirm your obligations.

Free (if registration needed)Immediate (online)

Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS. Also recommended if you plan to open a dedicated business bank account.

FreeImmediate (online application)

Official government source

Pet Sitter / Pet Care Insurance

While not federally required, pet sitting businesses should carry general liability insurance and pet care, custody, and control (CCC) insurance to cover injuries, escapes, or accidental deaths of animals in your care. Professional organizations like PSI (Pet Sitters International) and NAPPS offer member insurance programs. Most clients and professional standards bodies recommend at least $1 million in liability coverage.

$200–$1,500/year depending on coverage and business sizeObtained before accepting clients

Official government source