Pet Grooming Permits & Licenses in Bismarck, ND

Verifies zoning, building, fire compliance

Required to avoid escalating false alarm penalties

Pet grooming salons require extinguishers, exits clear of grooming equipment

Required for all LLCs; annual report required thereafter ($50 fee, due by anniversary date)

Applies to all LLCs; file online or by mail

Not required if using exact legal name; searchable registry available

Pet grooming services generally nontaxable, but products sold are; apply online via TAP system

Register online; rates based on experience (2024 new employer rate 2.0% on first $45,500/employee)

Pet grooming services are generally not subject to sales tax in North Dakota unless tangible personal property (e.g., shampoos, conditioners) is sold separately. If such items are sold, a sales tax permit is required. See NDCC § 57-38-01 and ND Admin Code § 81-02-01-04.

Required for all businesses; pet grooming classified under service businesses

Simple registration form; Fargo (largest city) is in Cass County

Pet grooming typically allowed in commercial (C) or business (B) zones; verify site-specific zoning

Pet grooming may qualify if no odors/nuisances; client traffic limited

Required for sinks, bathing areas typical in pet grooming

Size/location restrictions per zoning district

Pet grooming must control barking, hair clippings, chemical odors

The threshold in North Dakota is **one** employee; sole‑proprietors with no employees are exempt. Coverage must be obtained through a licensed ND workers’ comp insurer.

While not a legal requirement, many municipalities or property owners will not allow operation without a general liability policy.

Not legally required but strongly recommended for pet‑grooming businesses.

North Dakota does not have a specific pet‑grooming license or bond at the state level. Local city or county ordinances may impose a bond; check municipal regulations.

North Dakota follows the standard minimum liability limits: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, $25,000 property damage.

Recommended whenever the business carries inventory for resale.

Only required for establishments that sell or serve alcohol.

Pure grooming services (no boarding) are not subject to this specific insurance recommendation, but many insurers bundle the coverage.

The filing can be completed online via the Secretary of State’s portal. No additional documentation is required unless the LLC’s name or address has changed.

Other municipalities in North Dakota (e.g., Bismarck, Grand Forks) have similar licensing requirements; check the respective city website for exact fees and due dates.

If gross taxable sales are <$10,000 per year, the Department may allow annual filing.

If the LLC is taxed as a partnership or disregarded entity, file the appropriate ND partnership return (Form ND‑20) instead.

The LLC must also issue Schedule K‑1s to members.

Deposits are generally required semi‑weekly or monthly depending on tax liability.

Employers must also submit wage reports electronically via the ND UI portal.

Self‑insurance is permitted only with prior approval from the Division.

The inspection verifies sanitation, animal welfare, and compliance with the North Dakota Animal Health Act.

Inspection covers egress, fire extinguishers, electrical safety, and occupancy limits.

Keep copies of all sales receipts, purchase invoices, payroll records, tax returns, and any permits/inspection reports.

Required posters include Minimum Wage, Workers’ Compensation, Unemployment Insurance, and OSHA safety notices.

Payments can be made electronically via the ND Revenue’s e‑Payments portal.

All dates are calendar‑year based; businesses with a fiscal year ending other than Dec 31 should adjust deadlines accordingly (e.g., filing due the 15th day of the 4th month after fiscal year end).