Pennsylvania does not license pet groomers. Philadelphia treats grooming salons as personal-services businesses needing a Commercial Activity License plus zoning approval under Phila. Code Title 14. Mobile groomers also need a vehicle business license; cruelty cases fall under 18 Pa.C.S. §5511.
Pennsylvania has no professional licensure for pet groomers, despite repeated bills (Laila's Law) failing to pass. Philadelphia regulates grooming as a commercial personal-services business: each salon needs a Commercial Activity License from the Department of Revenue, a city tax account, and a Use Registration Permit from L&I confirming the location is zoned for the use under Phila. Code Title 14 (typically CMX commercial-mixed-use zones). Mobile groomers add a vehicle business license and must comply with parking restrictions while operating. Owners of injured pets can pursue civil claims and request criminal charges under 18 Pa.C.S. §5511 cruelty if neglect or harm occurred. Best practice salons join PIPP or NDGAA voluntary certification.
Operating without a Commercial Activity License is a Phila. Code §19-2602 violation with daily fines roughly $300. Zoning misuse triggers L&I cease-operations orders. Cruelty causing injury can support 18 Pa.C.S. §5511 charges plus civil damages.
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See how Philadelphia's pet groomer rules rules stack up against other locations.
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