Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Detroit, MI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.

Updated 2026-02-15 5 stops $100–$450 est. 2–5 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home
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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 Michigan

2 stops

  1. Michigan — No State Pet Sitter License

    Michigan does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes are lightly regulated. Boarding kennels above certain size thresholds may need to comply with Michigan Department of Agriculture regulations.

    Official government source

    No state feeN/A

  2. Michigan Business Registration

    LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Sole proprietors using a trade name should file with the county clerk.

    Official government source

    $50–$50 (LLC filing fee)Immediate (online) to 5 business days

City of Detroit / Wayne County

2 stops

  1. City of Detroit Business License

    All businesses operating in Detroit, including pet sitting businesses, must obtain a business license from the City of Detroit BSEED (Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department). In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes may only need the basic business license.

    Official government source

    $75–$200/year2–4 weeks

  2. Detroit Animal Care and Control — Kennel Permit (for boarding)

    If you board clients' pets at your home or a separate facility in Detroit, you may need a kennel permit from Detroit Animal Care and Control. Requirements depend on the number of animals you board. Contact Detroit Animal Care and Control for current requirements.

    Official government source

    $50–$200/year2–4 weeks (may require inspection)

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$450 · 2–5 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home

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Official Sources

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