If you’re planning to board dogs from home in the UK, there’s one question you need answered first:
Do you need a licence?
The short answer is:
Yes — if you’re taking payment and keeping dogs in your home, you almost certainly do.
Here’s what the law actually says — and what you need to prepare for.
Do You Need a Licence to Board Dogs in the UK?
You need a licence if you:
- Keep other people’s dogs in your home
- Charge money (even part-time)
- Offer overnight boarding or daycare
- Do it as a business or side hustle
Since 2018, dog boarding is regulated under:
The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018
If money changes hands, you are operating a licensable activity.
It doesn’t matter if:
- It’s “just a few weekends”
- You only take one dog at a time
- You call it a hobby
If you’re paid, you need a licence.
Who Issues the Dog Boarding Licence?
Your local council.
Not the RSPCA.
Not DEFRA directly.
Not an online platform.
Each council handles applications slightly differently, but the requirements follow national statutory guidance.
To apply, search:
“[Your council name] home dog boarding licence”
What Are the Licensing Requirements?
Here’s what councils typically require before granting approval.
1. Inspection of Your Home
An officer will visit your property to assess:
- Safety and security
- Sleeping arrangements
- Separation areas
- Cleanliness
- Escape prevention
- Fire safety planning
- Emergency procedures
They are checking welfare standards — not your interior design taste.
2. Required Policies & Documentation
Most councils require written procedures, including:
- Preventative healthcare plan
- Cleaning & hygiene policy
- Feeding procedures
- Introduction of new dogs policy
- Isolation procedure
- Emergency & evacuation plan
- Monitoring & welfare records
- Public liability insurance certificate
- Vet registration confirmation
- Site plan of premises
Some councils request 5 documents.
Others request 20+.
Preparation is key.
3. Insurance
You must have appropriate pet business insurance, typically including:
- Public liability cover (£5m is common)
- Care, custody and control cover
- Loss, injury or death protection
Standard home insurance is not enough.
4. Star Rating System
Once licensed, you’ll receive a rating from 1 to 5 stars.
Your rating is based on:
- Compliance standards
- Risk assessment
- Record keeping
- Welfare quality
- Inspection history
Higher ratings can mean longer licence periods (up to 3 years).
How Much Does a Dog Boarding Licence Cost?
Costs vary by council.
Typical ranges:
- £300–£600 for new applications
- Renewal fees vary
- Additional vet inspection fees may apply
Always check your specific council website for up-to-date fees.
What Happens If You Operate Without a Licence?
Operating without a licence can result in:
- Fines
- Enforcement action
- Prosecution
- Invalid insurance
- Permanent damage to your reputation
If something goes wrong while unlicensed, you may be personally liable.
This is not worth the risk.
England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland Differences
Regulations differ slightly depending on where you operate.
- England follows the 2018 Regulations
- Wales and Scotland have separate licensing frameworks
- Northern Ireland operates under different legislation
Always confirm requirements with your local authority.
Before You Apply: Quick Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
- Confirmed licence requirement with your council
- Checked application fee
- Secured correct insurance
- Drafted required policies
- Prepared your home layout plan
- Set up record-keeping system
- Identified isolation area
- Reviewed emergency procedures
If you’d like a printable checklist covering everything inspectors typically look for, you can download it here:
👉 Download the Free UK Dog Boarding Licensing Starter Checklist
Final Thoughts
Dog boarding in the UK is regulated for a reason — animal welfare.
The process can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the requirements, it becomes manageable.
Preparation is what separates a stressful inspection from a smooth approval.
