Owning or running a dog kennel in Delaware involves more than just a love for animals. There are rules, some statewide and many local regulations that dictate what’s legal, what needs a license, and what type of structure you’re allowed to build. If you’re hoping to start a boarding business or simply have a lot of dogs on your property, it’s important to understand how kennel laws work across the state.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything from licensing requirements to zoning rules by county and city, plus what you need to know based on your specific industry, whether grooming, training, or breeding. If you’re serious about setting up a kennel, this is the deep dive you need.
Do I Need A Dog Kennel License in Delaware?
Yes, you do. Delaware requires a kennel license if you’re caring for more than four dogs, and this applies to a range of situations, including breeders, boarders, shelters, and even some pet owners who simply have a lot of dogs on their property.
Licenses are issued by the Office of Animal Welfare, part of the Delaware Division of Public Health. You’ll need to apply through the state, and in many cases, you’ll also need to meet zoning or structural requirements before your application can be approved.
It’s not just about counting dogs. The state is focused on making sure that anyone operating a kennel, commercial or private, is providing proper care, shelter, cleanliness, and veterinary attention.
Do You Need An LLC For A Dog Kennel?
You aren’t legally required to form an LLC to run a dog kennel, but there are several reasons why you might want to.
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) gives you legal separation between your business and personal finances. If something goes wrong, say, a customer sues over a dog injury, your home, car, and savings aren’t automatically at risk.
Most serious kennel operators form an LLC for liability protection, tax flexibility, and credibility. It’s a relatively low-cost way to protect your future, especially if you’re offering boarding or breeding services.
How Many Dogs Can You Own in Delaware?
Delaware doesn’t have a statewide cap on how many dogs a person can own, but many counties and towns do. In most places, once you hit five or more dogs, you’re expected to apply for a kennel license.
For example, in specific neighborhoods in Kent County, owning more than four dogs without a license could lead to fines, or worse, an order to reduce the number of pets.
Before you add a new dog to your family or start a breeding program, check with your local zoning office or animal control department. You don’t want to break the rules and put your animals at risk unknowingly.
Dog Kennel Laws By County
| Kent County | Planning Services |
| New Castle County | Development & Planning |
| Sussex County | Planning & Zoning |
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Kent County?
In Kent County, if you own more than four dogs, you’re expected to obtain a kennel license. Kennels are generally allowed in agricultural and commercial zones, but running one in a residential neighborhood could be an issue. In specific neighborhoods in Kent County, owning more than four dogs without a license could lead to fines, or worse, an order to reduce the number of pets.
Zoning approval is typically required before a license is issued. The county may also send an inspector to your site to ensure you’re meeting standards for cleanliness, safety, and space. Owners who don’t comply risk fines and potential license revocation.
If you’re boarding dogs overnight or running a grooming facility with more than a few animals at once, check with Kent County Planning Services to ensure your property is zoned correctly.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In New Castle County, DE?
New Castle County tends to be stricter about dog-related businesses. In suburban areas like Bear, Newark, and Middletown, zoning ordinances are tight. Most kennels must be placed on properties zoned commercial or rural residential.
If you plan to open a dog training facility, boarding business, or breeding operation, be prepared to provide site plans, noise control measures, and possibly a public hearing. The county often requires conditional use approval before a kennel can open.
New Castle County is also proactive about animal welfare. Inspections are more frequent here, and regulations around sanitation, noise, and animal housing are detailed and enforced. For more information, reach out to the county’s Development & Planning Department.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Sussex County, DE?
In Sussex County, laws vary based on whether you’re in a rural or more developed area. Generally, owning up to four dogs is permitted without a license. Once you go over that number, a kennel license becomes necessary.
Kennels in agricultural zones are usually allowed, but you may need a special use permit depending on your setup. Boarding businesses must meet strict fencing and drainage requirements to prevent runoff and nuisance complaints.
Sussex County is home to many backyard breeders, and as a result, the local government is placing increasing emphasis on regulating large-scale operations. If you’re raising litters, expect to comply with state-mandated welfare standards for breeders. To learn more, contact Sussex County Planning & Zoning.
Commercial Dog Kennel Laws in Delaware | By City
Just because a kennel is legal in your county doesn’t mean it’s automatically legal in your city. Municipal laws often go beyond what’s enforced at the county level. Local ordinances can restrict everything from the number of dogs you can own to where you’re allowed to operate.
| Claymont | Planning Department |
| Dover | Kennel Licenses |
| Elsmere | Planning Commission |
| Georgetown | Agricultural/Residential District |
| Middletown | Permits – Licensing – Inspections |
| Milford | Planning & Zoning |
| Newark | Land Use, Development, Planning & Zoning |
| Rehoboth Beach | Building & Licensing |
| Seaford | CODE |
| Smyrna | Planning & Zoning |
| Wilmington | Wilmington Police Department |
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Dover, DE?
Yes. In Dover, DE, anyone keeping more than four dogs for purposes such as training, breeding, showing, or selling is required to get a kennel license. You can apply for a kennel license through the Division of Public Health’s Office of Animal Welfare, rather than obtaining a license for each dog individually.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Elmere, DE?
Yes, if you’re planning to run a commercial dog kennel in Elsmere, DE, you’ll need a kennel license. Delaware Animal Services requires licensing for facilities that house more than four dogs for activities such as breeding, selling, showing, or training.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Georgetown, DE?
Yes, a license is required to operate a commercial dog kennel in Georgetown, DE. According to Delaware Animal Services, any facility housing more than four dogs for breeding, sale, shows, training, or similar activities must obtain a kennel license. For more information, visit Georgetown’s Community Development.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Middletown, DE?
If you’re planning to run a commercial dog kennel in Middletown, Delaware, chances are you’ll need a kennel license, on top of your local business license. In Delaware, any place that keeps more than four dogs for things like breeding, selling, showing, or training usually needs to be licensed. It’s a good idea to check the Middletown Permit Department for exact requirements before getting started.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Milford, DE?
Yes, you need a license to run a commercial dog kennel in Milford, DE. According to Delaware Animal Services, any kennel, commercial or otherwise, must be officially licensed. You will need to submit an application that details the number of dogs and the nature of your operation. In addition to the state requirements, you must also follow local rules and secure a business license to remain fully compliant. For more information or to apply, visit Delaware Animal Services – Kennel Licenses.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Newark, DE?
If you plan to operate a commercial dog kennel in Newark, DE, a state kennel license is required for facilities with more than four dogs. Local zoning rules may also apply, so check with Newark’s Planning and Development Department for any additional permits.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Rehoboth Beach, DE?
Yes, a license is needed to run a commercial dog kennel in Rehoboth Beach, DE. The city requires all businesses, including kennels, to obtain a local business license to operate within its boundaries. On top of that, Delaware state law requires a kennel license for any facility housing more than four dogs for breeding, sales, shows, or similar purposes.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Seaford, DE?
Yes, running a commercial dog kennel in Seaford, Delaware, does require proper licensing. You must apply for a kennel license through the Delaware Office of Animal Welfare. This license is distinct from standard dog licenses and is required if your facility houses more than four dogs for activities such as breeding, selling, showing, or training.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Smyrna, DE?
Yes, if you operate a commercial dog kennel in Smyrna, Delaware, you are required to obtain a kennel license from the Delaware Division of Public Health’s Office of Animal Welfare. This license is necessary for any establishment housing more than four dogs for purposes such as breeding, sale, show, or training. The kennel license is valid for one year from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually.
In addition to the state licensing requirement, Smyrna’s local zoning regulations stipulate that veterinary establishments and dog kennels must be situated at least 300 feet away from any residential, institutional, or recreational district boundaries.
Do I Need A License For A Commercial Dog Kennel In Wilmington, DE?
Absolutely, if you’re planning to run a commercial dog kennel in Delaware, you must obtain a kennel license. This requirement applies to any operation that houses more than four dogs for activities such as showing, breeding, selling, or training. The license is issued by the state and remains valid for one year from the date it’s purchased, with annual renewal necessary to stay compliant.
Dog Kennel Regulations By Industry in Delaware
Dog Boarding Regulations in Delaware
If you’re offering temporary housing or overnight care for dogs in Delaware, you’re legally required to have a kennel license if you care for more than four dogs at once. This applies to a boarding business run from another facility or your home.
Dog Grooming Regulations in Delaware
In Delaware, dog grooming businesses must comply with both state and local regulations. All dogs six months or older are required to be licensed, and owners must provide proof of a current rabies vaccination to obtain the license. Grooming facilities that house more than four dogs are considered kennels and must be licensed accordingly, with fees ranging from $70 for up to 12 dogs to $200 for over 100. These businesses must meet strict sanitation standards, ensuring grooming tools are regularly cleaned and the facility remains well-lit, ventilated, and free of hazards.
While Delaware doesn’t require individual dog groomers to be licensed, business owners must obtain a state business license, and in some cases, pass a jurisprudence exam. Although professional certification isn’t mandatory, it’s encouraged to boost credibility and demonstrate expertise in the field.
Dog Shelter Regulations in Delaware
Delaware’s dog shelter regulations ensure animals are kept in clean, safe, and humane conditions. Shelters must maintain proper temperatures, provide suitable enclosures, follow strict sanitation rules, and list stray dogs online within 24 hours. They’re also required to offer medical care, support adoptions, and protect animals during extreme weather.
Dog Trainer Regulations in Delaware
Delaware doesn’t require dog trainers to be licensed or certified, so anyone can offer training services. However, the state does regulate training areas and enforces animal welfare laws through certified officers. Designated training zones must be registered and meet size requirements. Dogs over six months need a state license, must be under control, and can’t bark excessively under nuisance laws.
Dog Breeder Regulations in Delaware
Individuals who own more than four dogs for purposes such as breeding, selling, showing, or training must obtain a kennel license rather than separate licenses for each dog. This type of license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Breeders are also required to follow specific guidelines related to animal care, including cleanliness, pest management, and safe handling practices.
To qualify, anyone keeping over four dogs for these designated activities can apply for a kennel license. Licensing rules may vary by county, as local governments are allowed to set their own procedures and fees. For dog owners with four or fewer dogs, standard individual licenses are typically required instead.
Dog Vet Regulations in Delaware
Dog owners are required to license their pets and ensure they are vaccinated against rabies by the time they reach six months of age. Dogs must also be under control at all times to comply with state laws. When it comes to veterinary care, only licensed veterinarians can provide medical services such as vaccinations and treatments, although vet techs and assistants may carry out emergency procedures if directly supervised by a licensed vet.
Regarding control and cleanliness, dogs must always be kept restrained, whether on or off the owner’s property. Pet owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their animals and must promptly remove any waste their dog leaves on public land. Veterinary professionals must establish a valid relationship with the pet and owner before delivering care, and in some cases, temporary permits may be granted to veterinarians or technicians working under a licensed practitioner.
K-9 Dog Facilities in Delaware
In Delaware, K-9 police dogs and their handlers must meet strict training, certification, and operational standards to ensure they’re fully prepared for duties like detecting drugs or apprehending suspects. Teams must complete job-specific training, pass regular evaluations, and follow detailed protocols in the field. Training records and proper facilities are required. General dog ownership laws also apply statewide; dogs over six months old must be licensed, kept under control, and not bark excessively. Dangerous dogs are regulated, and enforcement is handled by local authorities and the Office of Animal Welfare.
For more in-depth information on K-9 training requirements, consult Title 1 of the Delaware Administrative Code.
Ready To Get Your Dog Kennel?
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