Dog Daycare License Requirements in Rhode Island STATE

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

In Rhode Island, a state-issued Kennel License is required for any establishment that keeps five or more dogs or cats (or a combination) for the purpose of breeding, boarding, or sale.

Overview

If you're planning to open a dog daycare or boarding facility in Rhode Island, understanding the state's licensing requirements is a critical first step. The good news is that the requirement is clear: if you keep five or more dogs or cats (or a combination) for boarding, breeding, or sale, you will need a state-issued Kennel License. This applies to most commercial operations, even smaller ones, so don't assume you're exempt.

The primary agency responsible for issuing and regulating these licenses is the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), specifically its Division of Agriculture. They oversee the implementation of Rhode Island General Laws Title 4, Chapter 19, 'Animal Care and Control,' which defines what constitutes a kennel and outlines the licensing process and standards.

Your journey to licensure will begin with a thorough review of these state laws and the DEM's detailed 'Rules and Regulations Governing the Keeping of Animals in Kennels, Pet Shops, and Other Establishments.' These documents are your blueprint for compliance. They cover everything from the structural integrity of your facility to sanitation, animal care protocols, and record-keeping requirements. You'll need to ensure your planned or existing facility meets specifications for adequate space, ventilation, lighting, heating, and cooling for the animals. Provisions for clean food and water, proper waste disposal, and a designated isolation area for sick animals are also non-negotiable.

Once you're confident your facility can meet these standards, you should contact the DEM Division of Agriculture to obtain the official Kennel License application form. Complete the form accurately and submit it along with the surprisingly modest annual fee of $25. Be prepared for a pre-license inspection by a DEM representative. This inspection is crucial as it verifies that your operation is fully compliant with all state regulations. Any deficiencies identified will need to be corrected before your license can be issued.

Common pitfalls for new operators often include underestimating the specific facility requirements, particularly around enclosure sizes or the need for a dedicated isolation area. Ensure you design your facility with these regulations in mind from the outset to avoid costly modifications later. While Rhode Island law doesn't explicitly mandate general liability or animal bailee insurance for a Kennel License, securing comprehensive coverage is a wise business decision to protect against unforeseen circumstances involving animals in your care. Budget approximately 4-8 weeks for the application and inspection process, though this can vary depending on the DEM's workload and how quickly you can address any identified issues.

Application steps

1. Review Rhode Island General Laws Title 4, Chapter 19 ('Animal Care and Control') and the DEM Rules and Regulations Governing the Keeping of Animals in Kennels, Pet Shops, and Other Establishments.
2. Ensure your facility meets all required standards for housing, sanitation, health, and record-keeping as outlined in the state regulations.
3. Contact the RI DEM Division of Agriculture to request the official Kennel License application form and any specific instructions.
4. Complete and submit the application form along with the required annual fee to the Division of Agriculture.
5. Undergo a pre-license inspection by an authorized representative of the DEM Division of Agriculture to verify compliance with all regulations.
6. Once your facility passes inspection and the application is approved, your Kennel License will be issued.

Common gotchas

• The 'five or more dogs or cats' threshold can be easily met by a small daycare or boarding operation, making the state license mandatory for most commercial businesses.
• Failing to thoroughly review the specific facility requirements (e.g., enclosure dimensions, isolation areas, veterinary care protocols) before construction or renovation can lead to costly rework during the inspection process.
• The DEM regulations are comprehensive; ensure you understand the requirements for record-keeping for each animal, disease control, and proper waste disposal.

Facility requirements

Facilities must be constructed and maintained to be structurally sound, weather-proof, and easily cleaned. Adequate space, ventilation, lighting, heating, and cooling must be provided. Provisions for proper sanitation, waste disposal, and access to clean food and water are mandatory. Secure enclosures and an isolation area for sick animals are also required.

Insurance requirements

Rhode Island state regulations for a Kennel License do not explicitly mandate specific liability insurance coverage. However, it is highly recommended that operators obtain comprehensive general liability insurance and animal bailee insurance to protect against claims of injury, loss, or damage to animals in their care.

Related resources

• Rhode Island General Laws - Title 4, Chapter 19, Animal Care and Control
• DEM Rules and Regulations Governing the Keeping of Animals in Kennels, Pet Shops, and Other Establishments (DEM-D.A.D. 2004-1)
• Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management - Division of Agriculture

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