Running a dog business in California means more than belly rubs and treats. If you board, groom, train, or care for dogs, there are rules in place to protect the pups and your business. California takes animal care seriously, and every type of dog-related service has its own set of guidelines.
In this blog, we’ll break down the kennel regulations for different industries across the state so you can stay in compliance and keep those tails wagging.
Do I Need A Dog Kennel License in California?
In California, the need for a dog kennel license depends on your location and how many dogs you have. Each city and county sets its own rules. Some areas require a license if you keep more than a certain number of dogs, even if it’s just for boarding, breeding, or rescue work.
To find out what applies to you, check this blog’s city and county sections. We’ve listed local requirements to help you stay on the right side of the law and keep things running smoothly.
Do I Need An LLC For A Dog Kennel?
You are not legally required to form an LLC to run a dog kennel, but it is a smart move for many business owners. Registering your kennel as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) helps protect your personal assets if your business faces legal action, debts, or other liabilities.
An LLC can also make your business look more professional and may give you access to certain tax benefits or financing options. If you’re planning to grow your business, hire employees, or open a physical location, an LLC is a great option!
How Many Dogs Can You Own in California?
In most parts of California, you can own up to four dogs without needing a special permit. If you plan to keep more than four, you’ll likely need a kennel license or similar permit.
Since each city and county sets its own rules, the exact number can vary. For detailed information, check our city and county regulations chart to see what applies in your area.
Dog Kennel Regulations By Industry in California
Dog Boarding Regulations in California
In California, dog boarding facilities must meet specific standards to ensure the safety and well-being of all pets in their care. Pets must be securely contained, and any escapes must be reported to the owner and local animal control if the pet is not quickly recovered. Surfaces must be easy to clean and sanitize, lighting should allow for proper care and inspection, and grooming areas must be kept separate and sanitized daily. Food must be stored away from animal enclosures, and a designated isolation area is required for sick pets. For more requirements for your dog boarding facility, read the chapter relating to boarding facilities.
Dog Vet Regulations in California
To operate a veterinary facility in California, it is required to have a license issued by the California Veterinary Medical Board. The vet facility must be registered with the board, and the board can inspect the facility at any time. Equipment and areas must be kept clean and sanitary at all times. There are additional rules for emergency hospitals, small animal clinics, and the types of services offered. For complete details, refer to the California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.
Dog Grooming Regulations in California
California dog groomers do not need a state-issued license, but facilities must remain clean and keep all equipment in good condition. If a boarding facility offers grooming services, the grooming must occur in a separate area that is cleaned and sanitized at least once daily. Some cities have their own rules for grooming businesses, so it’s important to check with your local government to understand the specific requirements in your area.
Dog Shelter Regulations in California
In California, animal control shelters are regulated by the California Food and Agriculture Code. Shelters must provide prompt and necessary veterinary care to protect both adoptable animals and public safety. They are required to keep detailed medical records as outlined by the Veterinary Medical Board. Microchipping is allowed and does not require a veterinarian. Registered Veterinary Technicians can provide certain health services and perform emergency procedures under a veterinarian’s direction. Euthanasia is also permitted within shelters following proper guidelines.
Dog Trainer Regulations in California
California requires at least three years of dog training experience. This requirement ensures that blind persons are given well-trained dogs for any situation for their utmost safety. When a client purchases dog training services from a trainer, the trainer must provide the client’s name, address, any civil judgments related to dog training services, and any criminal animal cruelty convictions against the dog trainer or an employee of the dog training facility.
Dog Breeder Regulations in California
Dog breeders in California must have a seller’s permit registered with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration if they sell more than two dogs in a year. The dog breeding facility may have to provide a written medical program approved by a veterinarian to prevent illness and parasitism. Breeders will have to keep all records of dogs, including the date received, from whom the dog was acquired, date of each litter birthed, veterinary records, cause of death, and disposal method.
K-9 Dog Facilities in California
In California, K-9 handlers must meet a list of requirements to begin handling dogs. The handler must pass an evaluation to be in law enforcement and complete 30 hours of documented training. Once approved for patrol, K-9 may only be used if the suspect is resisting arrest or in an area where entry of a person would cause a threat. It should not be used unless there is an imminent threat of danger. For more information, reach out to the K-9 Enforcement Unit.
Dog Kennel Laws By City in California
Kennel regulations in California vary by city and often depend on factors like the number of dogs allowed and the kennel size. Use the details in the chart below to contact your local planning or zoning department for accurate and up-to-date information.
Dog Kennel Laws By County in California
Dog kennel regulations vary by county depending on how many dogs are allowed, how big the kennel can be, kennel placement, and other factors. For the most accurate information, use the link to your county’s planning department for more information on how to get started!
| Alameda County | Alameda County Planning Division |
| Alpine County | Alpine County Community Development Department |
| Amador County | Amador County Planning Department |
| Butte County | Butte County Animal Control DepartmentButte County Animal Laws & Permits |
| Calaveras County | Calaveras County Animal Services |
| Colusa County | Colusa County Community Development Department |
| Contra Costa County | Contra Costa County Animal Services |
| Del Norte County | Del Norte County Zoning, General Planning, and Development Standards Department |
| El Dorado County | El Dorado County Planning Division |
| Fresno County | Fresno County Public Works & Planning Department |
| Glenn County | Glenn County Planning & Community Development Services |
| Humboldt County | Humboldt County Planning & Building Department |
| Imperial County | Imperial County Planning & Development Services |
| Inyo County | Inyo County Planning Department |
| Kern County | Kern County Animal Services |
| Kings County | King County Community Development Agency |
| Lake County | Lake County Community Development Department |
| Lassen County | Lassen County Planning & Building Services |
| Los Angeles County | Los Angeles County Land Use & Zoning Department |
| Madera County | Madera County Planning Division |
| Marin County | Marin County Community Development Agency |
| Mariposa County | Mariposa County Planning Department |
| Mendocino County | Mendocino County Planning & Building Services |
| Merced County | Merced County Community Development Department |
| Modoc County | Modoc County Planning Department |
| Mono County | Mono County Community Development Department |
| Monterey County | Monterey County Planning Services |
| Napa County | Napa County Planning, Building, & Environmental Services |
| Nevada County | Nevada County Planning Department |
| Orange County | Orange County Website |
| Placer County | Placer County Planning Services |
| Plumas County | Plumas County Planning Department |
| Riverside County | Riverside County Planning Department |
| Sacramento County | Sacramento County Planning & Environmental Review Department |
| San Benito County | San Benito County Building & Code Enforcement Division |
| San Bernardino County | San Bernardino County Land Use Services |
| San Diego County | San Diego County Planning & Development Services |
| San Francisco County | San Francisco Planning Department |
| San Joaquin County | San Joaquin Community Development Department |
| San Luis Obispo County | San Luis Obispo Planning & Building Department |
| San Mateo County | San Mateo Planning & Building Department |
| Santa Barbara County | Santa Barbara County Planning & Development Department |
| Santa Clara County | Santa Clara County Department of Planning & Development |
| Santa Cruz County | Santa Cruz County Planning Department |
| Shasta County | Shasta County Planning Division |
| Sierra County | Sierra County Planning Department |
| Siskiyou County | Siskiyou County Planning Department |
| Solano County | Solano County Planning Services |
| Sonoma County | Sonoma County Permits |
| Stanislaus County | Stanislaus County Planning & Community Development Department |
| Sutter County | Sutter County Development Services |
| Tehama County | Tehama County Planning Department |
| Trinity County | Trinity County Planning Division |
| Tulare County | Tulare County Planning & Building Division |
| Tuolumne County | Tuolumne County Planning Department |
| Ventura County | Ventura County Planning Division |
| Yolo County | Yolo County Planning Division |
| Yuba County | Yuba County Community Development Department |
Ready To Get Your Dog Kennel?
Got the information you need to start your dog kennel business? We want to help you each step of the way here at The Dog Kennel Collection. We build dog kennels that work for you and consider all factors based on the dog industry you want to start. Are you interested in learning more? Request a quote or contact us to find the dog kennel of your dreams. We offer kennels based on the number of dogs and kennel customizations, so you can design and customize them however you like!
