Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Columbus, OH

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $75–$450 est. 1–4 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 Ohio

2 stops

  1. Ohio — No State Pet Sitter License

    Ohio does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes are largely unregulated at the state level. Commercial boarding kennels may need to comply with Ohio Department of Agriculture regulations if they meet the size threshold for commercial facilities.

    Official government source

    No state feeN/A

  2. Ohio Business Registration

    LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Ohio Secretary of State through the Ohio Business Gateway. Sole proprietors may use a trade name registered at the county level.

    Official government source

    $99 (LLC filing fee)Immediate (online) to 3 business days

City of Columbus / Franklin County

3 stops

  1. City of Columbus Business License (Vendor's License)

    Pet sitting businesses in Columbus that sell any taxable services or products should obtain a Vendor's License. For service-only pet sitting, contact the City of Columbus License Section to confirm whether a local business license is required for your specific situation.

    Official government source

    $25Immediate to 1 week

  2. Franklin County Animal Control — Kennel License (for boarding)

    If you board clients' pets at your home or a commercial facility in Franklin County, you may need a kennel license from Franklin County Animal Care and Control. Requirements depend on the number of animals boarded and your zoning. Contact Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center for current thresholds.

    Official government source

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

  3. Columbus Zoning — Home Occupation (if boarding from home)

    Boarding animals at your home may require a Home Occupation permit from the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services. Columbus's zoning code regulates home-based business activities in residential districts.

    Official government source

    $50–$1502–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $75–$450 · 1–4 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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