Zoo Licence

Zoo Licence

Zoos are regulated by the Council under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981.

The Council works in close partnership with the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on all aspects of zoo licensing.

The licensing of zoos is a specialist field and the regulations are complex. If you are thinking of setting up a zoo, it is recommended that you contact a specialist officer first for advice and guidance on the details above.

The authority must consult the police, fire authority, governing body of any national institute concerned with zoos, adjoining authority if the zoo overlaps the area of that authority and any person wishing to object on grounds of alleged injurious effect on the health or safety of persons living in the area.

The authority must arrange an inspection by a consultant inspector from the list of suitable inspectors nominated by the Secretary of State.

Please give notice of your intention to apply for a Zoo Licence by contacting us using the above email address.

Apply Online

You can now apply and pay online, please use the following link:

Notification to Operate
Application to Operate
Renewal

What is the process?

The local authority cannot consider an application unless at least two months notice of the application has been given, plus publication of details in a local and national newspaper, and a notice placed at the site.

There is a further 28 day consultation period once the application has been received

How long does the process take?

We will issue your licence within 14 days following all consultation being completed.

How much does it cost?

Application Fee = £1500.00