Pet Shops   The City of Racine Public Health Department – Environmental Health Division annually inspects and permits pet shops in order to ensure the well-being of the animals and the people who purchase the animals.   Pet shops are regulated solely by Racine Municipal Code, and are defined as a person or corporation that sells any animals which will be kept by others for pleasure. However, a person selling only animals which he/she has bred and raised is not considered a pet shop.

The following is required for permitting:

1. Review the appropriate section of the Racine Municipal Code: Municipal Code Chapter 22, Article IV
2. Complete the required application for license and business plan. Submit a business plan including details regarding what types of animals will be sold and how those animals will be cared for.

   Application for Pet Shop Permit

3. Review the appropriate section of the Racine Municipal Code: Municipal Code Chapter 22, Article IV

4. Pay the one-time pre-inspection/application fee. This must be paid before any site visits will be conducted.

5. A pre-inspection of the facility must occur. All pre-inspections must be scheduled at least two (2) weeks in advance. Any violations found during the pre-inspection must be corrected pursuant to applicable state and local requirements prior to issuance of the permit.

6. Pay the permit fee. The permit year runs from July 1 through June 30, and the permit fee must be paid annually before July 1 to avoid penalties.

   It is the responsibility of establishment operators to ensure licenses are paid on-time.

For More Information

If you have questions or would like more information, call 262-636-9203.