Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia.

$150 -- $700 2–5 weeks for in-home pet sitting; 4–8 weeks if boarding (requires GDA kennel license and inspection) 5 requirements

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

Atlanta / Fulton County Requirements

2 requirements

City of Atlanta Occupational Tax Certificate

All businesses operating within Atlanta city limits, including in-home pet sitting businesses, must obtain an Occupational Tax Certificate from the City of Atlanta Department of Finance. This applies whether you visit clients' homes or operate from your own home. Renewed annually.

$75–$200/year (based on number of employees)1–3 weeks

Official government source

Home Occupation Permit (if operating from your home)

If you operate a pet sitting or boarding business from your home in Atlanta or Fulton County, you may need a Home Occupation Permit. Home-based boarding of clients' pets may also trigger zoning review. Verify with Fulton County Planning and Development whether your boarding activity exceeds home occupation limits.

$50–$1501–3 weeks

Official government source

Georgia State Requirements

2 requirements

Georgia Department of Agriculture — Kennel License (for boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or facility for compensation, Georgia requires a Kennel License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA). It is unlawful to operate a kennel without a valid GDA license. Fees are based on maximum holding capacity (number of animals boarded at one time). The license is issued annually. If you are only visiting clients' homes to care for their pets and not boarding animals at your own location, this license is generally not required.

$100–$400/year (based on holding capacity)2–4 weeks (includes inspection)

Official government source

Georgia Business Registration

If operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership, register your business entity with the Georgia Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a trade name registration with the Fulton County Clerk.

$100 (LLC filing fee)1–5 business days (online)

Official government source