DACC inspects animal facilities to ensure the welfare of the animals belonging to or being cared for by the facility owner. Examples of these facilities are pet shops, grooming businesses, boarding kennels, animal menageries, wild animal dealers, commercial pet breeders, animal exhibitions, businesses with guard dogs, and rodeos. Each facility receives a letter grade based on the findings of the inspection.
This unit has the responsibility of conducting 500 + inspections annually. The staff works closely with the Department of Regional Planning, Department of Public Works’ Building & Safety Division, and other County agencies as well as State agencies, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Staff work proactively to ensure the health and safety of animals by inspecting unlicensed and licensed animal businesses within our jurisdiction and enforcing all applicable laws and ordinances.
These officers educate business owners during their annual inspection by ensuring animals of various species are cared for properly in their environments. The inspectors document their findings in an inspection report and assign a letter grade. The grade reflects the facility’s level of compliance with applicable state statues, local ordinances, and policies related to the care of animals. Facilities that receive a lower than desired grade may request an additional inspection after they have remediated their problems, for an additional inspection fee. DACC can always conduct additional inspections if there is concern for the animals.
Health and Safety Code 122383 (f) requires animal facilities to have an evacuation plan in case of emergencies such wildfires or other natural disasters.
For new animal facilities, please see our Useful Resources.
Part of the licensing process requires signatures from the County of Los Angeles Department of Regional Planning and Building & Safety. If a business is located in a city contracted with our Department, that City’s code enforcement personnel can assist the facility owner.
For questions regarding Facility Licensing, you may contact: (562) 345-0323
