Pet Sitting Service Permit Requirements in San Jose, CA

1. 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.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. 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.

   Official government source

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

   $200–$1,500/year depending on coverage and business size

   Obtained before accepting clients

1. 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.

   Official government source

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

   No fee for in-home sitters (commercial kennel licenses vary)

   N/A for individual in-home sitters

2. 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.

   Official government source

   Free (if registration needed)·Immediate (online)

   Free (if registration needed)

   Immediate (online)

1. 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.

   Official government source

   $50–$350/year depending on city fee schedule·1–3 weeks

   $50–$350/year depending on city fee schedule

   1–3 weeks

2. 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.

   Official government source

   $50–$300 (permit fee)·1–4 weeks

   $50–$300 (permit fee)

   1–4 weeks

Official Sources

• San Jose Business Licensing
• California Department of Tax and Fee Administration — Seller's Permit
• Pet Sitters International (PSI)

Related Guides