Dog Daycare License Requirements in Colorado LOCAL

Updated 2026-05-11 · Verify with linked agency before action

Colorado does not have a statewide license for businesses solely offering dog daycare or boarding. Licensing and regulation are primarily handled at the local city or county level. However, facilities that engage in breeding, selling, or adopting animals, or operate as shelters, are subject to the state's Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) licensing.

Overview

Opening a dog daycare or boarding facility in Colorado involves navigating a different regulatory landscape than in many other states. A crucial point of understanding is that Colorado does not have a statewide licensing program specifically for businesses that solely offer dog daycare or boarding services. This means that while you might not need a state-issued license for these particular services, you are absolutely required to comply with local city and county regulations.

For a typical dog daycare or boarding operation, your primary focus will be on obtaining the necessary local business licenses and permits. This process starts by identifying the specific city and county where you plan to operate. Each municipality in Colorado will have its own set of rules, which can include general business licenses, specific kennel permits, and critical zoning ordinances. Zoning is often the first hurdle, as it dictates where commercial animal care facilities are allowed to operate within a given area. You'll need to contact your local city or county clerk's office, planning department, or animal control to understand their specific requirements.

While the state doesn't license general boarding, it's vital to be aware of the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA), administered by the Colorado Department of Agriculture. PACFA licensure *is* required if your business activities extend beyond basic boarding or daycare to include pet animal dealing (e.g., selling animals), operating as a pet animal shelter, or breeding animals. Many facilities that start with boarding may later expand into these areas, so it’s essential to understand when PACFA would become applicable to your operation. The PACFA program ensures humane care and treatment of animals in facilities under its purview. If your business falls under PACFA, you will need to meet their specific facility standards, record-keeping, and animal care guidelines.

Your step-by-step path should include: first, a thorough check of local zoning laws before committing to a location; second, contacting your local government to identify all required business licenses and permits; and third, meticulously completing all applications. Do not overlook insurance requirements; while not state-mandated, comprehensive general liability and animal bailee insurance are critical to protect your business and the animals in your care. By carefully navigating local regulations and understanding the scope of PACFA, you can ensure your dog daycare or boarding facility operates legally and responsibly in Colorado.

Application steps

1. Determine your specific city and county for business operations.
2. Contact your local city/county clerk's office, planning department, or animal control department to inquire about specific business licenses, zoning requirements, and any kennel permits required for dog daycare or boarding in your jurisdiction.
3. Obtain necessary local zoning approvals for your proposed business location, ensuring it complies with land use regulations for commercial animal care.
4. Complete and submit applications for all required local business licenses and permits. This often includes general business licenses and potentially specific animal-related permits.
5. If your facility will also engage in activities such as breeding, selling, adopting, or providing shelter for animals, research and apply for a Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) license through the Colorado Department of Agriculture.

Common gotchas

• Operators often assume no license is needed because there's no statewide license, overlooking critical local city and county requirements.
• Failing to verify local zoning ordinances early in the process can lead to significant delays or an inability to operate at a chosen location.
• Misunderstanding the applicability of PACFA: If you plan to engage in any activity beyond mere boarding or daycare (e.g., selling puppies, operating as a rescue, or breeding), you will likely need a state PACFA license in addition to local permits.

Facility requirements

Specific facility requirements for dog daycare and boarding are typically determined by local city and county ordinances, which may cover aspects like noise control, waste disposal, and general business operation standards. Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a statewide set of facility standards for businesses solely providing dog daycare or boarding, unless they are also engaged in activities regulated by the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA).

Insurance requirements

Colorado state law does not mandate specific insurance for dog daycare or boarding facilities; however, general business liability insurance is essential for any commercial operation. It is highly recommended to also obtain animal bailee insurance to cover loss, injury, or death of animals in your care or custody.

Related resources

• Colorado Department of Agriculture - Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) Program
• Contact your local City/County Clerk or Animal Control

Educational use only. Information was researched as of 2026-05-11 and reflects publicly available regulations. Pet care licensing changes frequently and varies by city and county. Always verify current requirements with the listed agency before applying or signing a lease. PetEditorial is not responsible for losses from reliance on this content. Spotted an error? Email [email protected].

← Back to all 50 states