About Facility Licensing
The Multnomah County Ordinances describe two types of facilities which require licensing:
- Animal facilities
- Animal rescue entities - Beginning July 2021 - Animal Rescues will be inspected and licensed by the Oregon Department of Agriculture Office of the State Veterinarian.
What is an animal facility?
An animal facility is defined as a site which is operated or used for:
- Boarding and Training
- Purposes of breeding, buying, selling, or bartering of cats, dogs, or other animals commonly maintained as pets.
This includes pet shops, doggie daycares and private persons whose pets have been allowed to reproduce. Veterinary hospitals are excluded.
Who needs a license?
If you operate an animal facility, you must get a license annually.
What are the requirements for animal facilities?
Each year, you will need to submit a fee, as well as basic information. Additionally, an Multnomah County Animal Services officer will inspect your facility to ensure it is safe for county residents and humane for animals.
Our highly trained officers will work with you to make sure your facility is the best it can be and meets the standards required for licensing. Your clients will feel better knowing that your facility has met our high standards. Specific requirements for animal facilities are outlined in the county ordinances in sections 13.150 - 13.1524.
What are the requirements for animal rescue entities?
What else do I need to know?
Important: Approval for a Facility License does not include approval by the Multnomah County Land Use Department. Land Use approval is a separate process. Please contact the Land Use Department at land.use.planning@multco.us or 503-988-3389 for additional information.
If your animal facility engages in breeding or selling, please submit an animal inventory
and rabies vaccination information to animal.facility@multco.us.
How do I pay my fee and get a license?
Please pay for your fees and submit basic information on the Get a Facility License page.