Pet Sitting Business Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting business in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

$75 -- $400 1–3 weeks for in-home visiting pet sitting; up to 5 weeks if boarding from home 5 requirements

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

Nashville / Davidson County Requirements

2 requirements

Metro Nashville Business License

Pet sitting businesses operating in Metro Nashville-Davidson County must obtain a business license from the Metro Nashville Department of Finance. This applies to in-home visiting pet sitters and boarding operators. Renewed annually.

$30–$100/year (minimum; scales with gross receipts)1–2 weeks

Official government source

Nashville Metro Animal Care and Control — Kennel Permit (for boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or a commercial facility in Nashville, Metro Animal Care and Control may require a kennel permit. The permit requirement depends on the number of animals boarded. Contact Metro Animal Care and Control for current requirements and inspection process.

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

Official government source

Tennessee State Requirements

2 requirements

Tennessee — No State Pet Sitter License

Tennessee does not require a state license for pet sitting services. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes are lightly regulated. Commercial boarding kennels may need to comply with local Davidson County animal control regulations.

No state feeN/A

Official government source

Tennessee Business Registration

LLCs, corporations, and partnerships must register with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name register with the county clerk.

$300 (LLC filing fee)Immediate (online) to 5 business days

Official government source