Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in New York City, New York County, New York.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $200–$1,000 est. 1–2 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; 6–10 weeks for boarding establishments (permit, inspection, and certification required)
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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 New York

2 stops

  1. New York State — No State Pet Sitter License (visiting only)

    New York State does not require a license for pet sitters who visit clients' homes. NYC's Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit is the primary regulatory requirement for boarding operations in the city (3+ dogs). Note: NY Senate Bill S08510 (the NYS Safe Pet Boarding Act) was introduced in 2025 and may create additional state requirements — check current status.

    Official government source

    No state feeN/A

  2. NY Sales Tax — Certificate of Authority

    Pet sitting businesses in NYC that board animals must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the NYS Department of Taxation. NYC combined tax rate is 8.875%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of New York City / New York County

3 stops

  1. NYC DCA Business License / Registration

    Pet sitting businesses in New York City that visit clients' homes generally need to register their business with New York State (LLC, corporation) but do not need a specific NYC consumer protection license for visiting pet sitters. Ensure your business entity is properly registered.

    Official government source

    Varies by entity type1–5 business days

  2. NYC DOHMH — Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit (for boarding 3+ dogs)

    New York City requires a Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) for any facility that houses 3 or more dogs for boarding purposes. This applies to home-based boarding as well as commercial kennels. Requirements include: Animal Care and Handling Certificate for the supervising manager, proof of Workers' Compensation and Disability Insurance, Certificate of Authority to Collect Sales Tax, and a DOHMH inspection before opening. All permits expire December 31 annually.

    Official government source

    $200–$400/year4–8 weeks (requires inspection)

  3. NYC Animal Care and Handling Certificate

    The supervising manager of a boarding establishment must complete an approved Animal Care and Handling Course and obtain an Animal Care and Handling Certificate before the Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit is issued.

    Official government source

    $50–$200 (course fee varies by provider)1–4 weeks (depending on course availability)

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$1,000 · 1–2 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; 6–10 weeks for boarding establishments (permit, inspection, and certification required)

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Official Sources

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