Arizona Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Arizona does not have a statewide dog breeder licensing law. However, state law requires a kennel permit if you keep five or more dogs, and kennels with 20 or more dogs must allow county inspections. Rules are managed at the county level.

License Required Varies (kennel permit for 5+ dogs)
Annual Fee Varies by county
Threshold 5+ dogs requires kennel permit

Regulatory Agency: County Boards of Supervisors (administered at the county level under state law ARS 11-1009)

Who Needs a License in Arizona?

Arizona does not have a specific statewide dog breeder license. However, under ARS 11-1009, anyone who operates a kennel must get a permit from their county's board of supervisors. A kennel is defined as an enclosed, controlled area where five or more dogs are kept. If you have fewer than five dogs, you can license each dog individually instead. Kennels with 20 or more dogs must allow inspections by the county enforcement agent as a condition of the permit.

How to Apply

To get a kennel permit, contact your county's board of supervisors or animal care and control office. In Maricopa County, for example, you can download a Kennel Permit Application from the county website. You will need to fill out the form and submit it to your county. The county may inspect your facility before issuing the permit.

Fees and Costs

Kennel permit fees vary by county. The state law allows each county to set its own fee amounts. Contact your county's animal care and control office for the exact cost. You may also need to pay individual dog license fees if you do not have a kennel permit.

Inspections and Compliance

Kennels with 20 or more dogs must allow inspections by the county enforcement agent as a condition of receiving a permit. Smaller kennels may also be inspected depending on county rules. Inspections check that dogs are being cared for properly and that the facility meets county standards.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Arizona state law does not have detailed record-keeping rules specific to dog breeders. However, all dogs over three months old must be vaccinated against rabies and licensed. You should keep records of vaccinations, licenses, and any sales or transfers. If you sell dogs commercially, federal USDA rules may also apply.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Anyone who knowingly fails to get a kennel permit within 30 days after the county enforcement agent tells them they need one has committed a Class 2 misdemeanor. Arizona also has animal cruelty laws under ARS 13-2910 that require all animals to have proper food, water, shelter, and medical care. Violations can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the severity.

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