California Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

California regulates dog breeders through the Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act. Breeders who sell dogs from three or more litters (or 20+ dogs) per year must follow state consumer protection rules. New laws effective January 1, 2026, add more disclosure and health requirements. Local cities and counties may also require their own breeding permits.

License Required Varies (state compliance + local permits)
Annual Fee Varies by locality
Threshold 3+ litters or 20+ dogs per year

Regulatory Agency: California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for import rules; local animal services agencies for breeding permits

Who Needs a License in California?

Under California Health and Safety Code Section 122045, a 'dog breeder' is a person, firm, or corporation that has sold, transferred, or given away all or part of three or more litters or 20 or more dogs in the past 12 months that were bred and raised on the premises. If you meet this definition, you must follow the Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act. Many cities and counties also require a separate breeding permit. For example, Los Angeles County requires a breeding license that specifies the size and number of dogs at your facility.

How to Apply

California does not have a single statewide breeder license application. Instead, you must comply with the state consumer protection laws (the Polanco-Lockyer Act) and apply for any local permits required by your city or county. Contact your local animal services office to learn about their specific permit process. Starting January 1, 2026, under Assembly Bill 506, all breeders must also provide health, vaccination, and other important information to buyers at the time of sale.

Fees and Costs

State-level fees are not charged for a breeder license because there is no single state breeder license. However, local breeding permit fees vary by city and county. Los Angeles County, for example, charges fees based on the number and size of dogs. Contact your local animal services office for exact costs.

Inspections and Compliance

California does not have a statewide breeder inspection program. Local animal services agencies may inspect your facility as part of the local permit process. If you sell dogs wholesale or across state lines, federal USDA inspections may also apply. Starting in 2026, any dog brought into California for sale must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection issued within 10 days before entry.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Under the Polanco-Lockyer Act, breeders must keep records and provide buyers with health information about each dog sold. Starting January 1, 2026, under AB 506, breeders must disclose vaccination records, health history, and other important details to buyers at the time of sale. Health certificates for dogs entering California for resale must be submitted electronically to the CDFA and the buyer.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Breeders who knowingly sell a sick dog can face civil penalties under the Polanco-Lockyer Act. Buyers have the right to return a sick dog or receive reimbursement for veterinary costs. Under AB 506, nonrefundable deposits in pet sale contracts are no longer allowed starting in 2026. Animal cruelty violations are handled under California Penal Code Section 597.

Sources and References

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