City of Racine
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Pet Shops
Pet Shop Permitting and Inspecting
The Environmental Health Division annually inspects and permits pet shops in order to ensure the well-being of the animals being sold and the families who purchase them.
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.
Pet Shop Permit Process
- Complete the required application for permit.
- Review the appropriate section of the Racine Municipal Code: Municipal Code Chapter 22, Article IV
- Complete and submit a business plan, including details regarding what types of animals will be sold and how those animals will be cared for.
- Pay the one-time pre-inspection/application fee. This must be paid before any site visits will be conducted.
- A pre-inspection of the facility must occur.
- Any violations found during the pre-inspection must be corrected pursuant to applicable state and local requirements prior to issuance of the permit.
- Pay the permit fee. The permitting year runs from July 1 through June 30, and the permit fee must be paid annually before July 1 to avoid penalties.
Other Departments to Contact
If you have questions or would like more information
Environmental Health Division
PublicHealth@cityofracine.org
262-636-9203
