Pet Sitting Service Permit Requirements in Tacoma, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a pet sitting service in Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington.

$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.

Tacoma / Pierce County Requirements

2 requirements

Tacoma — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

Pet sitting businesses operating in Tacoma — 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 Pierce County licensing office for specific requirements.

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

Official government source

Tacoma / Pierce County — Animal Care Facility Permit (if boarding)

If you board clients' pets at your home or at a commercial facility in Tacoma, 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

Washington State Requirements

2 requirements

Washington — Pet Sitting License Requirements

Washington does not require a state license for in-home pet sitting. Commercial boarding facilities that board animals for compensation at a dedicated facility may need a state Animal Shelter/Boarding License from the Washington State Department of Agriculture. In-home pet sitters who visit clients' homes in Tacoma are generally exempt from state licensing.

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

Official government source

Washington Department of Revenue — Business License (includes sales tax)

Pet sitting and dog walking services are generally not subject to sales tax in Washington. However, if you sell pet products (food, leashes, accessories) in addition to services, those sales may be taxable at the applicable rate of 6.5% state + 3.8% local. Register with the Washington 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