Dog Daycare License Requirements in Nebraska STATE
In Nebraska, any commercial operation housing dogs or cats, including dog daycares and boarding facilities, is required to obtain a state license through the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
| License type | Commercial Dog and Cat Operator License |
|---|---|
| Issuing agency | Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Division |
| Agency URL | https://nda.nebraska.gov/animal/commercial_dogcat/index.html |
| Agency phone | (402) 471-2351 |
| Fee range | $75-$150 (based on facility capacity) |
| Renewal cycle | Annual |
| Estimated timeline | 4-8 weeks (after all facility requirements are met and application is submitted) |
Overview
If you're planning to open a dog daycare or boarding facility in Nebraska, you'll need to obtain a state-level license. Nebraska operates under the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator Inspection Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 54-625 et seq.), which designates businesses that house a certain number of dogs or cats for commercial purposes, including boarding kennels and daycares, as 'Commercial Dog and Cat Operators.' This means your operation will be regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA).
It's crucial to understand that this state license is separate from any local zoning permits or business licenses your city or county might require. You'll need to secure those local approvals first, as the NDA will likely require you to be compliant with local ordinances before issuing a state license.
Your first step should be to thoroughly review the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator Inspection Act and its accompanying regulations, Title 23, Chapter 24 of the Nebraska Administrative Code. These documents outline detailed requirements for facility construction, sanitation, animal care, record-keeping, and staffing. Ensure your proposed facility design and operational plan meet all these standards before you begin construction or renovations.
Once you're confident your facility will meet compliance, you'll need to complete the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator License Application (NDA Form 215). On this form, you'll specify your operation type as a 'Boarding Kennel' and indicate your maximum capacity for animals. The license fee varies based on this capacity, typically ranging from $75 to $150 annually. Submit your application and fee to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Division.
After submitting your application, an inspector from the NDA will contact you to schedule a pre-licensing inspection. This inspection is critical; the inspector will verify that your facility meets all the requirements outlined in the state regulations. Be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge of animal care protocols, sanitation practices, and record-keeping procedures. Common pitfalls for new operators include inadequate primary enclosures (kennels/runs), insufficient isolation areas for sick animals, and not having proper records for each animal's vaccinations and health history. Once your facility passes inspection and all requirements are met, the NDA will issue your Commercial Dog and Cat Operator License, which must be renewed annually by December 31st.
Application steps
- Familiarize yourself with the Nebraska Commercial Dog and Cat Operator Inspection Act and Title 23, Chapter 24 of the Nebraska Administrative Code.
- Ensure your facility meets all zoning requirements and local ordinances for your specific business type and location.
- Develop your facility to meet the structural, operational, and animal care standards outlined in the state regulations.
- Complete the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator License Application (Form NDA 215), accurately indicating your operation type (e.g., Boarding Kennel) and capacity.
- Submit the completed application with the appropriate fee to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Division.
- Schedule and pass a pre-licensing inspection by a representative from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to verify compliance with all regulations.
Common gotchas
- Overlooking local zoning ordinances and permits, which are separate from state licensing and often required before state approval.
- Not understanding the specific definitions and requirements for different 'commercial dog and cat operator' types (e.g., boarding kennel vs. breeder vs. dealer), which impacts licensing category and fees.
- Failing to meet strict record-keeping requirements for each animal, including vaccination records, health treatments, and movement history.
- Underestimating the facility requirements for primary enclosures, sanitation, temperature control, and disease isolation areas before the initial inspection.
Facility requirements
Facilities must provide adequate space, sanitation, ventilation, and lighting. Primary enclosures must be constructed of impervious materials, cleaned daily, and sized appropriately for the animals. Dedicated areas for sick or isolated animals are required. Food storage, waste disposal, and pest control must adhere to specific standards to ensure animal health and safety.
Insurance requirements
Nebraska state regulations for Commercial Dog and Cat Operators do not explicitly mandate specific liability insurance minimums. However, obtaining comprehensive general liability insurance, including animal bailee coverage, is highly recommended to protect your business from potential claims related to animal injury, escape, or property damage.
Related resources
Free Resource for Operators
Get our 25-item Dog Daycare Pre-Opening Checklist (free PDF) — covering business formation, zoning, state licensing, insurance, and facility readiness across the entire opening process.
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].