A Domestic Animal Business Permit is required if you want to operate a business such as a:
- pet shop (selling animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, reptiles, or caged birds)
- pet boarding establishment (including daycare or overnight boarding for cats or dogs)
- breeding and rearing establishment (for cats or dogs)
- dog training establishment
- animal shelter.
These businesses must meet the requirements of the relevant State Government Code of Practice, which outlines guidelines for operation.
If your business doesn’t meet the above criteria, you don’t need a Domestic Animal Business Permit. If you’re unsure, contact an Animal Management Officer on 03 9278 4444.
Annual inspections
Our Animal Management Officers inspect all Domestic Animal Businesses annually to ensure compliance with the Code of Practice. Visit Agriculture Victoria for further information.
Apply for a Domestic Animal Business Permit
You need to apply for or renew your Domestic Animal Business Permit by 10 April each year.
Step 1: Submit your application
To apply, complete the Domestic Animal Business Permit Application form. With your application, include the:
- type of Domestic Animal Business you’re operating
- types of animals being kept on the premises
- number of animals being kept on the premises.
You need to pay a $380 application fee for a Domestic Animal Business Permit. The application fee will not be refunded if your application is unsuccessful.
Step 2: Schedule an inspection
Once your application is processed, an Animal Management Officer will contact you to arrange an inspection of your business.
During the inspection, the officer will confirm compliance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and guidelines from Animal Welfare Victoria. They may take photos of the premises.
If your business doesn’t meet the criteria, a permit will not be granted. Follow-up inspections can be scheduled at no extra cost.
Step 3: Application assessment
We’ll assess your application and notify you of the outcome within 10 business days. We’ll contact you if we need more information.
Purpose of the permit
Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, all Domestic Animal Businesses must register with Council.
The permit allows your business to buy, sell, rear, train, or board animals under specific conditions. These conditions include the:
- types of animals allowed
- number of animals permitted
- physical arrangements, such as cages or enclosures.
If your business doesn’t comply with the permit conditions, Council may withdraw or cancel your permit or refuse to issue a new one.
More information
If you have any enquiries regarding this application process, contact Local Laws on (03) 9278 4444.