Pet shop licence

Pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet are included in this licence.

To be eligible for a licence, you must must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.

We cannot issue a licence if you are disqualified under any of the following acts:

• The Animal boarding Establishment Act 1963
• The Pet Animals Act 1951
• The Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act 1954
• The Protection of Animals (Cruelty to Dogs) (Scotland) Act 1934

We will consider the following criteria when we evaluate applications: 

• animals will be kept in suitable accommodation - such as temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
• adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
• any mammals will not be sold too young
• steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
• adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place

Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure this list is complied with.

The Office of Public Sector Information website has a summary of the licence regulation.

To apply

To apply, please send us an email with your name, address and other contact details.

We'll then be in touch to explain the application process. 

Fees

Fees are based on your licence requirements. Our officer can advise you. 

To apply

Licences for businesses selling pets are issued by us. 

Please email us including your name, address and other contact details.

We'll contact you to explain the application process. 

Fees

Fees are based on your licence requirements. Our officer will advise you. 

Yes. This means you can act as though your application is granted if no representations have been received within 28 days of applying.

Please contact us.

If your application is refused, you can appeal to your local Magistrates' Court.

If you wish to make a complaint, you should contact the trader directly by letter with proof of delivery.

If that doesn't work, GOV.UK gives advice on consumer rights within the UK. If you're from outside the UK, contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

For complaints around another aspect of the operation, such as noise, pollution or public health, please contact us.