Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

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

$75 -- $450 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home 6 requirements

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

Virginia Beach / Virginia Beach City County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Virginia Beach Business License (BPOL)

All businesses operating in Virginia Beach, including pet sitting businesses, must obtain a Business License from the Virginia Beach Commissioner of the Revenue under the BPOL (Business, Professional, and Occupational License) tax. The license is renewed annually based on gross receipts.

$30–$200/year (based on gross receipts; minimum $30)1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Virginia Beach Animal Control — Kennel Permit (for boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or a commercial facility in Virginia Beach, a kennel permit from Virginia Beach Animal Control may be required. Requirements depend on the number of animals boarded. Contact Virginia Beach Animal Control for current thresholds and inspection requirements.

$50–$200/year2–4 weeks (may require inspection)
Official government source
3

Virginia Beach Zoning — Home Occupation (if boarding from home)

Boarding animals at your Virginia Beach home may require a Home Occupation zoning compliance review. Contact Virginia Beach Planning and Community Development to determine if your boarding activity requires approval.

$50–$1502–4 weeks
Official government source

Virginia State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Virginia — No State Pet Sitter License

Virginia does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes are lightly regulated. Commercial kennel operations may need to comply with local animal control regulations.

No state feeN/A
Official government source
2

Virginia State Corporation Commission — Business Registration

LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Virginia SCC. Sole proprietors using a trade name file a fictitious name with the SCC.

$100 (LLC) or $75 (corporation) filing feeImmediate (online) to 5 business days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

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