Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

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

$200 -- $1000 1–2 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; 6–10 weeks for boarding establishments (permit, inspection, and certification required) 6 requirements

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

New York City / New York County Requirements

3 requirements
1

NYC DCA Business License / Registration

Pet sitting businesses in New York City that visit clients' homes generally need to register their business with New York State (LLC, corporation) but do not need a specific NYC consumer protection license for visiting pet sitters. Ensure your business entity is properly registered.

Varies by entity type1–5 business days
Official government source
2

NYC DOHMH — Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit (for boarding 3+ dogs)

New York City requires a Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) for any facility that houses 3 or more dogs for boarding purposes. This applies to home-based boarding as well as commercial kennels. Requirements include: Animal Care and Handling Certificate for the supervising manager, proof of Workers' Compensation and Disability Insurance, Certificate of Authority to Collect Sales Tax, and a DOHMH inspection before opening. All permits expire December 31 annually.

$200–$400/year4–8 weeks (requires inspection)
Official government source
3

NYC Animal Care and Handling Certificate

The supervising manager of a boarding establishment must complete an approved Animal Care and Handling Course and obtain an Animal Care and Handling Certificate before the Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit is issued.

$50–$200 (course fee varies by provider)1–4 weeks (depending on course availability)
Official government source

New York State Requirements

2 requirements
1

New York State — No State Pet Sitter License (visiting only)

New York State does not require a license for pet sitters who visit clients' homes. NYC's Small Animal Boarding Establishment Permit is the primary regulatory requirement for boarding operations in the city (3+ dogs). Note: NY Senate Bill S08510 (the NYS Safe Pet Boarding Act) was introduced in 2025 and may create additional state requirements — check current status.

No state feeN/A
Official government source
2

NY Sales Tax — Certificate of Authority

Pet sitting businesses in NYC that board animals must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the NYS Department of Taxation. NYC combined tax rate is 8.875%.

FreeImmediate (online)
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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