Buffalo, NY Animal Ordinances: Pet Store Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- License issuer
- Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services
- Renewal certification required from
- Erie County SPCA or a licensed director of veterinary medicine
- Renewal frequency
- Annual
- Minimum fine
- $50 per offense
- Maximum fine
- $1,500 per offense
- License transferability
- Not transferable
Summary
Pet shops selling dogs, cats, birds, or other animals in Buffalo must obtain a license from the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services. Annual renewal requires certification from the Erie County SPCA or a licensed veterinarian that premises and animals are in acceptable condition.
§ 263-24.A. No person, firm, corporation, partnership or other entity shall operate a facility, business or shop which sells dogs, cats, birds, mice or other animals without first securing a license in accordance with this article.
§ 263-24.B. Standards. (1) Every place used as a facility, business or shop shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition, and no waste or refuse material shall be allowed to remain thereon for more than 24 hours. All animals shall be humanely treated, and any animal having any disease shall be properly isolated and treated. (2) All pens, cages and other structures shall be so constructed as to be easily cleaned. Such structures must be adequate to keep each animal from escaping and so constructed and so located as to keep any animal from biting or injuring any person or animal located outside of the cage. Water shall be available at all times to each animal, and food shall be provided as needed.
§ 263-24.F. Any person... violating any provision of this article shall be fined not less than $50 nor more than $1,500 for each offense, and a separate offense shall be deemed committed on each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
Full Breakdown
All pens, cages, and structures must be easily cleaned, prevent escape, and prevent biting. Water must be available at all times; food must be provided as needed. Any diseased animal must be isolated and treated. The license application requires business background information and documentation of the responsible owner. The license is not transferable. The Commissioner may revoke for violations or on report of conditions dangerous to animal welfare.
Violations & Fines
Fine of $50–$1,500 per offense; each day is a separate offense. Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services may revoke any license upon determination of a violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a pet store need a license to sell fish or reptiles?
Who inspects the pet shop?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York animal ordinances overview
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