Apply for a licence to run a zoo as a business in the city, renew your licence or make a change to an existing licence.
You’ll need a zoo licence if you’ll be displaying wild animals to the public for at least 7 days a year, in any place that’s not a circus or pet shop.
You should apply at least 6 months before the start date of your licence.
Your first licence is for 4 years. Then you'll need to renew it every 6 years.
Find more information about zoo licences from GOV.UK.
To get a licence your zoo must:
You must also do at least 1 of the following:
Before we give you a licence, we choose a veterinary practitioner with Defra to inspect your premises.
We'll also inspect your premises when your licence is up for renewal. You'll be responsible for the veterinary charges.
Find out how much your animal business licence will cost.
To apply for a licence contact the Animal Warden team.
Animal Wardens collect and return lost and found dogs. They also provide information on animal licensing, including pet shops, boarding, breeding and performing animals.
The Secretary of State for the Environment sets the standards of modern zoo practice. We must make sure that people who run zoos follow these standards.
You can find the standards of modern zoo practice from Defra.
For more information contact the Animal Warden team.
Animal Wardens collect and return lost and found dogs. They also provide information on animal licensing, including pet shops, boarding, breeding and performing animals.