Kirkland, WA Animal Ordinances: Pet Groomer Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Boarding
- Not allowed; grooming stay only
- Equipment
- Must be sterilized after each animal
- Dryer rule
- Animals may not be left unattended
- Caging
- No more than one animal per cage
- Inspection
- Must admit officer within 24 hours
- Penalty
- Up to $250 civil infraction (8.09.330)
Summary
Kirkland grooming parlors can't board animals, must sterilize equipment after every dog or cat, use restraining straps to prevent falls or injury, never leave animals unattended before a dryer, and meet the same sanitation and inspection standards as shelters and kennels, under KMC 8.09.210-8.09.240; violations are $250 civil infractions.
Grooming parlors shall: (1) Not board animals but keep only dogs and cats for a reasonable time in order to perform the business of grooming; (2) Provide such restraining straps for the dog or cat while it is being groomed so that such animal shall neither fall nor be hanged, nor be injured in any manner; (3) Sterilize all equipment after each dog or cat has been groomed; (4) Not leave animals unattended before a dryer; (5) Not prescribe treatment or medicine that is the province of a licensed veterinarian as provided in RCW 18.92.010; (6) Not put more than one animal in each cage; ... (11) Keep all cages, pens, or kennels used for holding animals in a clean and sanitary condition and disinfect on a routine basis.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4945, passed July 21, 2026).
Full Breakdown
120(16)). 230), including structurally sound housing, adequate electric power and water, pest-free food and bedding storage, prompt removal of animal and food waste, hot-and-cold washroom facilities, isolation of sick animals, and a ban on selling or misrepresenting a sick or injured animal. 010; no more than one animal per cage; floors and walls in grooming or holding areas must be water-impervious and kept in good repair; hot-and-cold water and washroom facilities must be available; equipment must be stored sanitarily; and cages, pens, or kennels must be cleaned and disinfected routinely. 200).
Violations & Fines
Operating an unsanitary, nauseous, foul, or offensive grooming parlor, or otherwise violating Chapter 8.09's conditions, is a Class 1 civil infraction under KMC 8.09.330(a), punishable by up to $250 per violation plus statutory assessments and billable city costs; each day, location, and incident counts as a separate infraction. The animal control officer may also pursue additional legal or equitable relief to enjoin practices and abate violating conditions (KMC 8.09.340).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Kirkland grooming parlor board pets overnight?
Are Kirkland groomers required to sterilize equipment between animals?
Who inspects Kirkland grooming parlors and how often?
What's the penalty for violating Kirkland's grooming parlor rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kirkland
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Pet Groomer Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle pet groomer rules.