Pet Sitting Service Permit Requirements in Aurora, CO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting service in Aurora, Arapahoe County, Colorado.

$100 -- $600 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from a home or commercial facility 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 15, 2026.

Aurora / Arapahoe County Requirements

2 requirements

Aurora — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

Pet sitting businesses operating in Aurora — including dog walking, in-home pet care, and pet transportation — must obtain a general business license or occupational tax certificate from the city or county. Home-based pet sitters may need a Home Occupation Permit if clients or their pets visit your residence. Check with the Arapahoe County licensing office for specific requirements.

$50–$350/year depending on city fee schedule1–3 weeks

Official government source

Aurora / Arapahoe County — Animal Care Facility Permit (if boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or at a commercial facility in Aurora, you may need an animal care facility, kennel, or pet boarding permit from the city or county animal control authority. Regulations vary significantly by municipality. Home-based boarding of a small number of animals (typically 1–3) may be exempt, but commercial-scale boarding requires a permit and inspection.

$50–$300 (permit fee)1–4 weeks

Official government source

Colorado State Requirements

2 requirements

Colorado — Pet Sitting License Requirements

Colorado does not require a state license for pet sitting. If you board animals at a commercial facility, local animal control or Arapahoe County regulations may apply. The Colorado Department of Agriculture regulates pet animal facilities (kennels and shelters) but not in-home pet sitting.

No fee for in-home sitters (commercial kennel licenses vary)N/A for individual in-home sitters

Official government source

Colorado Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

Pet sitting and dog walking services are generally not subject to sales tax in Colorado. However, if you sell pet products (food, leashes, accessories) in addition to services, those sales may be taxable at the applicable rate of 2.9% state + 3.75% city. Register with the Colorado revenue department to confirm your obligations.

Free (if registration needed)Immediate (online)

Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS. Also recommended if you plan to open a dedicated business bank account.

FreeImmediate (online application)

Official government source

Pet Sitter / Pet Care Insurance

While not federally required, pet sitting businesses should carry general liability insurance and pet care, custody, and control (CCC) insurance to cover injuries, escapes, or accidental deaths of animals in your care. Professional organizations like PSI (Pet Sitters International) and NAPPS offer member insurance programs. Most clients and professional standards bodies recommend at least $1 million in liability coverage.

$200–$1,500/year depending on coverage and business sizeObtained before accepting clients

Official government source