Animal Licences

To keep a boarding establishment (a cattery or kennel) you will need a licence from the local authority in whose area the business is located.

Any business wanting to operate as an animal breeding establishment for dogs must be licensed with the local authority in whose area the premises are located.

Animals classified 'dangerous wild animals' are identified in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act, which is available to view in full on the Office of Public Sector Information website.

Anyone wishing to sell vertebrate animals (including fish) require a pet animal licence issued under Pet Animals Act 1951 from the local authority where the business is located.

Stables that hire out horses for riding or instruction must be licensed under the Riding Establishments Act 1964 with the local authority in the area the premises are located.

Establishments where wild animals are kept for exhibition to which members of the public have access, with or without charge for admission, on more than seven days in any period of twelve consecutive months require licensing.