Laguna Niguel, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Groomer Rules (2026)

Section 10-1-8 defines a grooming facility as any fixed or mobile physical facility where animals are groomed, brushed, clipped or bathed on a commercial basis, and requires each individual parlor to carry its own separate permit regardless of common ownership. Section 10-2-309, within Division 2's general licensing article, makes it unlawful to conduct a grooming facility, kennel, pet shop, animal exhibition, animal rental establishment, commercial stable or animal event inside city limits without first obtaining the required license. Applications go through the animal services department under Section 10-2-300, and license fees are set by resolution of the city council under Section 10-2-301, payable in full and non-refundable.

Once issued, a license runs for one year under Section 10-2-302 unless the director sets a different term. Before approval, Section 10-2-311 requires an animal control officer to inspect the facility for compliance with the care standards in Section 10-1-38, and random unannounced follow-up inspections can occur afterward at the director's discretion. Section 10-2-405 layers on additional construction and maintenance regulations adopted by the City of Mission Viejo that apply specifically to licensed grooming facilities, kennels, pet shops, animal exhibitions and rental establishments. A license can be denied under Section 10-2-303 for an incomplete application, a false statement, an unfit operator, or a finding that the business would harm public health, safety or welfare at that location, and it can be revoked later under Section 10-2-306 for illegal, improper or disorderly operation.

An operator whose application is denied or license revoked may request a written administrative hearing under Section 10-2-308 within 30 calendar days, with notice mailed at least ten days before the hearing date.