Keep or train animals for exhibition
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When will I need a licence?
You will need a licence if you:
- exhibit animals
- keep or train animals for entertainment or education purposes
Penalties
If you keep or train animals for exhibition without a licence, you could be fined an unlimited amount or go to prison for up to 6 months.
Conditions of the licence
You will need to show that you can meet the minimum standards set out by the government under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals)(England) Regulations 2018.
Fees
The licence fee is £130 and a licence is valid for 3 years. We need a qualified vet to inspect your premises before we can grant you a licence. You will incur vet fees but the cost for this is not fixed. The fee charged depends on your circumstances, including your location and the size of your premises.
We will invoice you for the cost of the visit to your premises. Once you have received the invoice you can pay it using our online payment service.
If you don't pay the invoice we may not issue your licence. If we have already issued a licence, then we may suspend or revoke your licence.
How to apply
We recommend you read DEFRA's guidance notes for conditions for keeping or training animals for exhibition. To complete your application you will need:
- your business details
- details of the kind of animal you are training
- description of the nature of performance or exhibition
- insurance and vet details
You will be able to pay by debit or credit card when you apply online. If you are unable to complete an online payment contact us to discuss other methods of payment.
Licence renewal
You should apply to renew your licence at least ten weeks before it's expiry date. We will send you a reminder letter with the correct fee before your licence expires. You can email us with your contact details and we will contact you to take a payment.
If you fail to renew your licence and continue to operate as a business, you will be liable to the penalties listed above.
Change licence details
If you need to change your licence details email us the details of the changes you need to make.
