Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.

$300 -- $750 2–4 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 6 weeks if boarding from home 6 requirements

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

Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements

3 requirements

Philadelphia Commercial Activity License

All businesses operating in Philadelphia, including pet sitting businesses, must obtain a Commercial Activity License from the City of Philadelphia Department of Revenue.

$300/year1–2 weeks

Official government source

Philadelphia Animal Care and Control — Kennel Permit (for boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or a commercial facility in Philadelphia, a kennel permit from Philadelphia Animal Care and Control (ACCT Philly) may be required. Contact ACCT Philly to determine the specific requirements based on the number of animals you board.

$50–$200/year2–4 weeks (may require inspection)

Official government source

Philadelphia Zoning — Home Occupation (if boarding from home)

Boarding animals at your Philadelphia home may require a Home Occupation permit and zoning approval from Philadelphia L&I. Philadelphia's zoning code regulates home-based business activities in residential districts.

$50–$2002–4 weeks

Official government source

Pennsylvania State Requirements

2 requirements

Pennsylvania — No State Pet Sitter License

Pennsylvania does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes are lightly regulated. Pennsylvania's Dog Law, enforced by the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, primarily targets commercial kennels and breeders — not pet sitters.

No state feeN/A

Official government source

Pennsylvania Business Registration

LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name register with the county.

$125 (LLC filing fee)Immediate (online) to 5 business days

Official government source