Zoo licence
Under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981, you will need a zoo licence if you are displaying wild animals to the public for at least seven days a year, in any location that’s not a circus or pet shop.
Before you apply for a licence we recommend that you read the essential information provided on the GOV.UK website.
How to apply
You will need to notify us of your intention to apply for a zoo licence at least 2 months before making your application. We recommend that you contact the Food, Safety & Licensing team for advice and guidance prior to beginning the process.
Once you have officially and formally notified us of your intention to apply for a zoo licence, it has been validated and two months have passed, you can apply for a zoo licence. Please contact us to obtain an application form.
Before you get your licence your premises will be inspected. You may have to pay a fee for this. After the inspection we may attach conditions to your licence, for example, that you obtain insurance for any damage caused by the animals.
Fees
| Application | Fee |
|---|---|
| Notification of intention to apply | £132 |
| New licence * | £1053 (6 year licence) |
| On renewal or transfer and periodic * | £917 |
| Special inspection of licensed zoo ** | £176 per inspection |
*plus veterinary costs. **plus non-local authority staff and veterinary costs.
Once you have a licence
- You must display it or a copy of it at each entrance to the zoo.
- You must keep records on animal health, numbers and species, acquisitions, births, deaths (with causes), disposals and escapes.
- You will be inspected regularly to make sure you’re following these conditions.
- You will need to renew it after four years, using our renewal application form, by applying six months before it expires. Once renewed your licence will then last for 6 years.