Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

$250 -- $800 2–5 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 10 weeks if boarding from home (zoning review required) 5 requirements

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

Chicago / Cook County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Chicago Limited Business License

Pet sitting businesses operating in Chicago must obtain a Limited Business License (LBL) from the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). The LBL is required for service businesses. If you operate a boarding facility for animals, a regulated license may apply.

$250 per 2-year period (as of 2025; recently increased)2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

Chicago Zoning — Home Occupation (if boarding from home)

Pet sitting that involves boarding animals at your Chicago home may be subject to home occupation restrictions. Chicago's zoning code limits the types and scale of business activities permitted in residential districts. If you regularly board multiple animals, contact the Chicago Department of Planning and Development to determine if a special use permit is required.

Varies ($0–$500 for zoning review)2–8 weeks
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Illinois — No State Pet Sitter License

Illinois does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes face minimal regulation. Boarding kennels with more animals may need to comply with local animal control ordinances. There is no statewide pet sitter licensing program in Illinois.

No state feeN/A
Official government source
2

Illinois Business Registration

LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Illinois Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Cook County Clerk.

$150 (LLC) or $175 (corporation) filing fee5–10 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

Official Sources

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