How to Get a Breeder's License in Florida

To breed animals within the state of Florida, a kennel and business license is required. Permits and licenses must be obtained from local county and city government offices. The local County Animal Control agency will oversee the process once the business requirements are met. They will also continue to monitor the process to make sure that all regulations and laws are being followed. Additional requirements might be needed from breeding or kennel clubs in order to stay in good standing if the litters are registered with a club.

Things You'll Need

  • Registered fictitious business name
  • Business license
  • Federal identification number from the Internal Revenue Service
  • Certificate of Occupancy
  • Business tax receipt
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Instructions

  1. Business start-up

    • 1
      Some residential areas prohibit commercial breeders.

      Contact the local city government for zoning laws that might limit or ban kennels in the location where your business will operate.

    • 2
      Make sure the name you choose for your business is suitable.

      Register a fictitious business name with the Division of Corporations and pay the fee involved. Call 850-245-6058 if you have any filing questions. The Florida Department of State Division of Corporations is in charge of accepting and indexing business registrations or fillings as well as supplying information and certifications to businesses.

    • 3
      A federal tax ID number is also called an EIN.

      Apply for a federal tax identification number for your business by calling 800-829-4933.

    • 4
      A business tax professional can register your business for you.

      Register for Florida state taxes with the Florida Department of Revenue. If you have questions, contact 800-352-3671.

    • 5
      Call your local city hall to make sure you have all the required paperwork.

      File for a business license with a certificate of occupancy at the local city hall where the kennel will be located.

    Obtaining a kennel license

    • 6
      The county, not the city, must be contacted since the county manager and the board of the county commission regulate kennel ordinances.

      Contact local county animal control for a kennel license application packet and pay the required fee. The fee will vary depending on which county the kennel will be located in.

    • 7
      Informative meetings are required in most counties when filing for a kennel license to explain kennel ordinances in detail.

      Schedule an informative meeting with the County Animal Services investigator to continue the application process.

    • 8
      Have all business paperwork on hand when filing for a kennel license to prevent delays.

      Present evidence that the business is legal, including corporate documents, your federal identification number, business tax receipt and a certificate of occupancy.

    • 9
      Inspections cannot be scheduled.

      Pass all the legal requirements for state, county and city laws during a required surprise inspection. If the kennel passes inspection, then the license will be issued.

    • 10
      Always file taxes on time to avoid additional fees.

      File and report taxes to both the IRS and the state revenue department.