Licence - dangerous wild animals
The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 states that licences are required from the local authority to keep certain animals. An application must be made to the local authority who will inspect the premises where the animal is to be kept with a vet to ensure that the conditions, cages, food, etc. are suitable. Contact the Council for a list of animals this applies to.
No person may keep a dangerous wild animal without first obtaining a licence from the local authority.
Applicants must be:
- a least 18 years old
- not disqualified from keeping dangerous wild animals under the Act
- the owner of all of the animals that are to be included on the licence, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
To apply for a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence, applicants must supply the following to the Council:
- a completed Dangerous Wild Animals Licence application form
- the appropriate fee
- a current insurance policy which provides cover against damage which may be caused by the animal(s)
There is an application fee which must be paid at the time of appplication. Currently the fee is £30 (plus vet's fees). Where a licence is granted it will remain in place for 12 months and an application for renewal must be made before it expires.
Before being granted a licence the applicant must be able to demonstrate to the Council’s Licensing Officer that the conditions under which the animal(s) will be kept are satisfactory, having regard for the species housing including temperature and humidity, food and the safety of the keepers, visitors to the property and general public.
The Act does not apply to any dangerous wild animals kept in:
- a zoo
- a circus
- premises licensed as a pet shop
- a registered establishment for carrying out animal experiments
The premises and animals may be inspected at any reasonable time by a veterinary surgeon/practitioner or any competent person that is authorised in writing by the Council.
If you would like further information or would like to apply for a licence, please contact the Council’s Environmental Health & Licensing Division on 01438 242908/242916