Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

Updated 2026-02-15 5 stops $100–$800 est. 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home or facility
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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. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Massachusetts

2 stops

  1. Massachusetts — No State Pet Sitter License

    Massachusetts does not require a state-level license for in-home pet sitting services (visiting clients' homes). If you operate a commercial boarding kennel, you may need a permit from your city or town animal control officer. Massachusetts does not have a statewide kennel licensing program for small-scale pet sitters.

    Official government source

    No state feeN/A

  2. Massachusetts Business Registration

    LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a DBA with the city clerk.

    Official government source

    $500 (LLC filing fee)5–10 business days (online)

City of Boston / Suffolk County

2 stops

  1. City of Boston Business Certificate

    All businesses operating in Boston, including pet sitting businesses, must register with the City Clerk's office. Sole proprietors and partnerships operating under a trade name must file a Business Certificate (DBA). LLCs register with the state but should also notify the city.

    Official government source

    $65 (4-year certificate)Same day (in person) to 1 week

  2. Boston Animal Control — Kennel License (for boarding)

    If you board clients' pets at your home or a separate facility in Boston, you may need a kennel license or permit from Boston Animal Control. Boarding more than a few animals at your property may also require zoning approval. Contact Boston Animal Control or the Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD) to determine requirements based on the number of animals and your location.

    Official government source

    $50–$200/year2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$800 · 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home or facility

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Official Sources

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