Pet Sitting Service Permit Requirements in Grand Rapids, MI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting service in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan.

Updated 2026-03-15 6 stops $100–$600 est. 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from a home or commercial 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

2 stops

  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

    FreeImmediate (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 sizeObtained before accepting clients

State of Michigan

2 stops

  1. Michigan — Pet Sitting License Requirements

    Michigan does not require a state license for pet sitting or dog walking. Commercial boarding kennels that board more than 3 animals at a time must obtain a license from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Home-based pet sitters boarding small numbers of animals should verify local requirements in Grand Rapids.

    Official government source

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

  2. Michigan Department of Treasury — Sales Tax License

    Pet sitting and dog walking services are generally not subject to sales tax in Michigan. However, if you sell pet products (food, leashes, accessories) in addition to services, those sales may be taxable at the applicable rate of 6%. Register with the Michigan revenue department to confirm your obligations.

    Official government source

    Free (if registration needed)Immediate (online)

City of Grand Rapids / Kent County

2 stops

  1. Grand Rapids — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

    Pet sitting businesses operating in Grand Rapids — 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 Kent County licensing office for specific requirements.

    Official government source

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

  2. Grand Rapids / Kent County — Animal Care Facility Permit (if boarding)

    If you board clients' pets at your home or at a commercial facility in Grand Rapids, 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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$600 · 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from a home or commercial facility

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Official Sources

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