Apply for a dangerous wild animal licence
You will need a licence to keep some animals that are considered wild, dangerous or exotic. See the full list of animals you need a licence for.
Fees
A dangerous wild animal licence costs £694. In addition, a vet inspection will need to be carried out. This inspection may take up to four hours, depending on the number of animals and size of premises.
Your premises will be inspected before and after you get a licence. The cost of any vet or inspection fees are not covered by the application fee or licence. You must pay for them separately. The amount will be confirmed after each inspection.
Length of licence
A licence will be valid for a maximum of two years. You will need to renew it at least four weeks before the existing licence runs out.
The renewal process is the same as the application process.
Eligibility criteria
You will need to:
- be over 18 and not disqualified from keeping dangerous wild animals
- keep the animals within the Borough of Broxbourne
- provide accommodation for the animals that is adequate and secure
- show the Council a plan of the premises where the animals will be kept
- have insurance in place, approved by the Council, to cover against liability for any damage caused by the animals
The animals must only be kept by the person or persons named on the licence. If the licence holder dies, a licence will remain valid only for 28 days. After this, a new licence will need to be approved to keep the animals.
You can view and download the full legal requirements and licence conditions.
Application process
The granting of a dangerous wild animal licence application is at the discretion of the Council; it can be approved, refused or amended at any time. The licence may specify restrictions on the movement of the animals.
The Council aims to issue licences within 60 days of receiving the application – this includes a 21-day consultation period.
Offences and penalties
Anyone who keeps an animal covered by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 without a licence, or who fails to comply with their licence conditions, could face fines of up to £2,000.
The Council also has the power to seize, retain or destroy animals kept without a licence, or those that fail to comply with licence conditions.
How to apply
Apply now for a new or renewal licence.