Florida Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Florida currently does not have a statewide dog breeder licensing law. The state has health rules for selling dogs under Florida Statute 828.29, but specific breeder licensing is handled at the county level. A 2025 bill (SB 1830) to create mandatory statewide licensing died in committee. A 2026 bill (HB 1521) proposes a voluntary DAWG Breeder Program, not a mandatory licensing system.

State License Required No (as of early 2026)
County Permits Vary by county
Proposed Legislation HB 1521 (2026): voluntary DAWG Breeder Program
Health Certificate Required for all dog sales (FL Statute 828.29)
Governing Agency FL Dept. of Agriculture (state); county animal services (local)

Regulatory Agency: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (state health rules); county animal services (local permits)

Who Needs a License in Florida?

As of early 2026, Florida does not have a statewide dog breeder license requirement. However, many counties require their own breeder or hobby breeder permits. For example, Broward County, Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County, and Clay County all have local breeder permit requirements. The rules vary from county to county, so you need to check with your local animal services office. At the state level, anyone who sells dogs must follow health and veterinary rules under Florida Statute 828.29.

How to Apply

Since there is no statewide breeder license, you will need to contact your county's animal services department to find out what local permits are required. Some counties have online applications, while others require you to visit their office in person. At the state level, if you sell dogs, you must make sure each animal has been examined by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of the sale and has the proper vaccinations and health certificates.

Fees and Costs

State-level fees do not apply because there is no statewide breeder license at this time. County-level permit fees vary depending on where you live. Some counties charge anywhere from $25 to a few hundred dollars per year for a hobby breeder or kennel permit. Check with your local county animal services office for specific fee information.

Inspections and Compliance

Florida does not currently conduct statewide breeder inspections. However, county animal control officers may inspect breeding facilities depending on local ordinances. Inspections typically check for proper sanitation, adequate food and water, safe housing, and compliance with local animal care standards.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Under Florida Statute 828.29, anyone who sells dogs must provide a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. Sellers must keep records showing that each dog has been vaccinated against rabies, distemper, and other common diseases, and has been dewormed for internal parasites. Counties with breeder permits often require additional record-keeping, such as tracking each litter and each sale or transfer of a puppy.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Because there is no statewide breeder license, there are no statewide penalties for unlicensed breeding. However, violating Florida's animal health laws (such as selling a sick dog without proper veterinary clearance) can result in fines and legal action. At the county level, operating without a required local permit can lead to fines and other enforcement actions.

Sources and References

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