Instructions
Determine whether you want to open a boarding kennel or a breeding kennel. A boarding kennel is where dogs are taken in for board and care for specific periods of time, such as during owner vacations. A breeding kennel is owned and operated by a professional dog breeder for the purpose of breeding dogs for sale. A breeding kennel requires additional licenses, including a breeder's license, a local business license and a State of California seller's permit from the Board of Equalization.
Contact your local city or county animal control office. Explain your circumstances, and ask if you are required to obtain a kennel license. They will be able to advise you in your specific case if your proposed kennel qualifies as a boarding or breeding kennel and which permits are required. If you do not want to open a kennel business but own three or four dogs, they will also be able to tell you if you need a private kennel license. The planning department of your local jurisdiction can answer zoning questions as they relate to kennel laws in your area.
Complete the applicable permit applications, and submit them to the appropriate city or county office.
Maintain your kennel in good condition at all times. Licensed kennels are inspected by your local city or county jurisdiction. The frequency of inspections depends on the jurisdiction; in most cases, it is once a year. However, unannounced or surprise inspections may also be allowed, so be sure that your kennel continues to meet all the conditions of the license.
How to Get a Kennel License in California
Although California state law governs the regulation and licensing of dogs, kennel licenses are granted by local city or county governments and not by the state. There are also different requirements for boarding kennels and breeding kennels. Other considerations include zoning; whether you live in a city or a rural area may affect kennel license requirements. Also, even if you don't intend to operate a kennel business, be advised that if you own a certain number of dogs (usually four or more, but in some local jurisdictions the number is three), this may be considered a "private kennel" requiring that an exception be applied for, particularly in residential districts.