Toronto’s New Licensing Rules: What Pet Professionals Need to Know Now

The City of Toronto has approved major updates to pet business regulations under EC22.6. These changes will impact retailers, groomers, breeders, mobile services, and home-based operations. While the City’s aim is to modernize and enhance animal welfare and consumer protection, these revisions introduce new obligations—and possible restrictions that every pet professional needs to be aware of. 

What Changed?

• Expanded Definition of Pet Establishment
  The term now covers grooming salons, pet shops, daycare, boarding, training facilities, as well as mobile and home-based operations. Each activity—like grooming, breeding, daycare, or sale/adoption—requires its own endorsement in your license.

• Definition of animal is now inclusive of fish/aquatics.

• Updated Licensing Requirements
  Required deliverables include:

  • $2 million liability insurance,

  • Detailed record-keeping,

  • Veterinary contact information,

  • Ongoing inspections by Municipal Licensing and Standards (MLS).

  • Infrastructure changes

• Streamlined Application Process
  Some dated requirements (like employee lists or medical exams) have been removed; HOWEVER, MLS now has the power to impose conditions on your license mid-term, increasing oversight.

• Mandatory Email Contact
  Licensing applications must now include a valid email to facilitate timely communication.

• Fees and Timing

  • Application fee: $758.01 per establishment (covers all endorsements)

  • Annual renewal fee: $370.08 per establishment
    Both fees operate on a full-cost recovery basis and include annual adjustments Toronto City Website.
    These fees take effect starting February 1, 2027 Toronto City Website.

Important Note: Sale of Rabbits and Guinea Pigs

The bylaw restricts sourcing rabbits and guinea pigs to rescues, shelters, or surrenders only—commercial sales via wholesalers or breeders will no longer be permitted. For full details and timelines, see the City’s agenda item EC22.6 here.

Why These Changes Matter

While some updates reduce bureaucracy, they also bring heightened regulatory oversight and new costs:

• MLS’s power to impose mid-term conditions may affect operations, scheduling, and business capacity.

• License application and renewal fees add new recurring expenses.

• Mobile and home-based professionals must now comply—no exemptions.

What You Should Do Now

1. Review your current license and confirm which endorsements (e.g., grooming, sale/adoption) you need.

2. Update your contact information—especially your email—with MLS.

3. Budget for the new fees: $758.01 per application, $370.08 per renewal, starting February 1, 2027.

4. Get compliant: Secure the required insurance, record-keeping, and veterinary contacts.

5. Review the City documents linked above for your own knowledge and business protection.

6. Contact your local councillor if you need clarification or guidance specific to your business setup.

Bottom Line

Toronto's updated licensing framework strengthens animal welfare standards and oversight—but it also brings new financial and administrative burdens, especially for mobile and home-based businesses. Staying informed, proactive, and compliant will help protect your operations and avoid disruption.

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