What Colorado law says about licensing a boarding kennel or daycare, pets nobody picks up, and rabies. Checked November 2, 2026.
State license
The Colorado Department of Agriculture licenses pet boarding and training facilities under the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act. The fee is $500 a year, and you must pass an inspection and a required education course.
Vets only
The law covers only veterinarians: 10 days after notice by certified mail, return receipt requested. A non-vet kennel is not covered, so ask an attorney before rehoming an unclaimed pet.
Local rules
No statewide rule; county or district health boards may require it.
A 2026 law (HB26-1183, effective Aug. 12, 2026) raised the license fee cap to $1,500, so confirm the current fee with the department.
Sources: C.R.S. § 35-80-104 8 CCR 1202-15 pt. 4 C.R.S. § 12-315-115 C.R.S. § 25-4-607
Facts, not legal advice. Laws change, and your county or city may have its own kennel permit: call them before you rely on any of this.
| State | Kennel license | Pets nobody picks up | Rabies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | State license | Vets only | Local rules |
| Arizona | State license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Kansas | State license | Vets only | Local rules |
| Nebraska | State license | No rule found | Required |
| New Mexico | No state license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Oklahoma | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Utah | No state license | Vets only | Local rules |
| Wyoming | No state license | Vets only | Local rules |
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