Taylor, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Groomer Rules (2026)

Section 4-10 of the Taylor Code of Ordinances treats commercial animal businesses, including pet groomers, as a licensed activity rather than an open one. Before opening for business, a groomer, seller, breeder, show or exhibition operator, or boarding kennel must file a written application and pay the applicable permit fee to the animal control officer. The resulting permit is valid for one year from issuance and must be renewed annually, and § 4-10(a) requires it to be conspicuously displayed in public view at the business at all times, so an inspector or customer can confirm it on sight.

Section 4-10(b) exempts two categories from the permit: licensed veterinarians and veterinary clinics, and anyone raising livestock in an area properly zoned for that use, so a groomer operating inside a veterinary clinic does not need a separate business permit. Once permitted, the business is subject to inspection: § 4-10(c) authorizes the animal control officer to inspect the business, its animals and its premises at reasonable times during normal business hours to confirm compliance with the whole of chapter 4, not just the permit section.

Section 4-10(d) adds an ongoing sanitation duty on top of the general animal-care rules in § 4-11 and § 4-12: every location where the business keeps animals must be kept clean and sanitary, and exercise areas must be cleared of excrement at least twice a week, or more often if a neighboring property owner complains.