Los Angeles, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Groomer Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit fee
- $180.00 (LAMC § 53.50(f)(11))
- Issuing agency
- LA Animal Services Department
- Permit term
- 1 year from issuance
- Late renewal penalty
- 15% of renewal fee
- Prior revocation lockout
- 1 year bar on reapplying
Summary
Operating a pet grooming parlor in Los Angeles requires a permit from LA Animal Services before opening, with a $180 permit fee under LAMC § 53.50. The permit must be renewed annually and posted on-site, or the business is operating unlawfully.
It shall be unlawful for any person, without first obtaining a permit from the Department pursuant to this section, to operate or conduct a business or enterprise in the City of Los Angeles that involves keeping or exhibiting animals, including, but not limited to, a dog kennel, cat kennel, pet shop, Zoo, wildlife conservation center, animal rental establishment, animal grooming parlor, riding academy... 11. Animal Grooming Parlor $180.00
Full Breakdown
00. 50(b) with whatever information the General Manager of Animal Services requires; permits expire one year from issuance unless revoked, suspended, or the business changes location or ownership. A permittee who misses the 30-day renewal window pays the regular fee plus a 15% late penalty. 50(c) requires the Department to investigate and confirm the grooming operation won't violate city or state law, won't menace community health or safety, and is maintained in a clean, sanitary condition where animals aren't subjected to needless suffering or cruelty.
02, if staff or the permittee are convicted of violating Penal Code § 597 (animal cruelty), fail to provide adequate food, water, shelter or protection, let the premises become unsanitary, or violate any Department rule or regulation. Permits must be posted conspicuously at all times, and a prior revocation within the past year blocks a new application.
Violations & Fines
Operating an animal grooming parlor without the § 53.50 permit is a misdemeanor enforceable by LA Animal Services and the City Attorney. Renewing late adds a 15% penalty on top of the $180 fee, and unsanitary conditions or cruelty findings under Penal Code § 597 can trigger permit revocation or suspension through the § 22.02 hearing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a city permit to run a dog grooming business in LA?
How long does an LA animal grooming parlor permit last?
What happens if I renew my grooming parlor permit late?
Can the city revoke a grooming parlor's permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
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Pet Groomer Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle pet groomer rules.