You need a zoo licence if you display wild animals to the public for at least seven days a year in any place that is not a circus or pet shop.
Zoos are regulated under the Zoo Licencing Act 1981. You could be fined up to £2,500 if you operate a zoo without a licence or do not follow the conditions of the licence.
Consultation
At least two months before applying for a zoo licence, you need to write to the Council giving notice of your intention to apply. At the same time, you need to place a notice in both a local and national newspaper, as well as at the planned zoo site, to publish your intentions to operate a zoo.
You must provide the following details:
- the number and type of animals to be kept
- the location and layout of the zoo
- approximate visitor and staff numbers
- your standards of animal care and approach to conservation
To get a licence, you must also find out if planning permission is needed for your zoo.
A two-month consultation period will then begin, giving the public the chance to comment on the proposals. The site of the zoo will also be inspected by the Council who will consult with other local agencies such as police, fire and planning.
Application process
After the two-month consultation period has ended, you can apply for your zoo licence provided planning permission has been granted for the zoo.
The Council will not grant a licence if it affects:
- the health and safety of local people
- local law and order
- the animals’ well-being
Also, a licence may be refused on weight of public comment or if anyone working for the zoo has committed an animal welfare offence.
Fees
Initially, zoo licences are granted for four years and then renewals run for six years. You will need to pay the following application fee:
|
Number of animals |
First four years |
Six-year renewal |
|---|---|---|
|
0-50 |
£945 |
£1,070 |
|
51-100 |
£995 |
£1,130 |
|
101+ |
£1,050 |
£1,180 |
Vet inspection fees will also be charged after every inspection. The amount will be confirmed after each inspection.
Inspections
Your zoo will be inspected before and after you get a licence. If you are granted a licence, the Council will inspect the zoo at least once a year.
These are either formal inspections, where you will be told in advance of any inspection, or more informal inspections where inspectors may turn up unannounced.
Renewals
Your zoo licence will need to be renewed after four years. The licence holder must start the renewal process at least six months before the expiry of the existing licence.
An inspection of the zoo will be carried out before a licence can be renewed. Renewals are valid for six years.
Transfer a licence
A licence can be transferred to another person with the approval of the Council. It costs £85 to transfer your zoo licence.