Domestic Animal Businesses
When do you need a Domestic animal business permit?
You need a Domestic animal business Permit if you:
- Run a business that buys or sells domestic animals.
- Charge a fee to train, walk or care for dogs or cats.
- Breed cats or dogs to sell, whether or not profit is made.
- Have 3 or more fertile female cats or dogs and are not a member of an approved animal breeding organisation.
Examples of businesses that need a permit
- Dog training businesses that charge customers.
- Pet shops that buy, sell or facilitate rehoming of domestic animals.
- Animal shelters and pounds.
- Anyone who charges for the care of dogs or cats. This includes day care, overnight care or home-based care.
- Dog walkers who walk more than 3 dogs (dog walkers need a dog walking permit, not a domestic animal business permit)
If you are looking after dogs or cats at your home and getting paid, then you must have a domestic animal business permit. If you are working with an organisation (such as Mad Paws or Pawshake), you still need a domestic animal business permit.
Apply for a permit
What happens when you have a permit?
Domestic Animal Businesses need to meet the regulations under the relevant Code of Practice
You must renew your Domestic Animal Business Permit before 10 April each year.
Before your business opens, we will visit and inspect the property to make sure it meets the required standards. We will then carry out an inspection each year.
We are here to help you follow the Codes of Practice and run your business correctly. If any changes are needed, we will explain what needs to be done and work with you to help you meet the requirements.
You may also need a permit from different areas of Council, such as the planning scheme for conducting a business - including a home based business. It's your responsibility to check these requirements.
FAQ for home-based boarding and dog walking businesses
Contact us
Our Animal Management team is here to help. Get in touch if you have questions or would like a print version of any files.
Send us a message on My Port Phillip.
Email: pets@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Call ASSIST: 03 9209 6777