Mobile Dog Grooming Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a mobile dog grooming in New York City, New York (Manhattan) County, New York.

$250 -- $700 4–8 weeks (NYC DCWP license is the main gating item) 5 requirements

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

New York City / New York (Manhattan) County Requirements

2 requirements
1

NYC Dept of Consumer and Worker Protection — Pet Grooming License

New York City requires a Pet Grooming Shop License from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) for anyone operating a pet grooming business, including mobile operations. NYC Local Law 16 of 2020 introduced this licensing requirement. The license requires completing a pet grooming safety course and passing an examination. Contact NYC DCWP at 311.

$150 biennial license fee4–8 weeks (application, course, exam, and inspection)
Official government source
2

NYC Dept of Buildings — No Separate Permit for Mobile Operations

Mobile pet groomers operating from a vehicle do not require a NYC Buildings permit. However, you must comply with NYC parking and commercial vehicle regulations when operating in the five boroughs. Commercial vehicles parked for extended service periods may require a Commercial Parking Meter Space.

Parking fees varyN/A
Official government source

New York State Requirements

2 requirements
1

New York State DBA Filing

If operating under a business name (not your legal personal name), file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Albany County Clerk (for sole proprietors) or file with your county clerk and publish a notice in two newspapers (as required by NY law for sole proprietors and partnerships).

$25–$100 (filing fee + publication costs)2–4 weeks (including publication)
Official government source
2

New York Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

Pet grooming services are taxable in New York State. Register with the NY Dept of Taxation and Finance for a Certificate of Authority (vendor's permit) before providing any taxable services. The combined NYC rate is 8.875%.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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