Information about dangerous wild animal licences is under keeping a dangerous wild animal.

How to apply

If you want to keep an animal classed as dangerous, wild or exotic then you will need to apply for a dangerous wild animal licence.

You will need to print out and complete an application form and send this to us. 

What you will need

You will need to provide us with information about the business such as your operating procedures outlining how you meet and comply with each of the conditions of the licence.

The following documents should be attached to your application:

  • Completed Application Form
  • Public Liability Insurance Certificate (at least £5million cover)
  • Envenomation Procedure
    • What happens if bitten or stung by a venomous animal. What are the timescales for venom to set in and is the envenomation likely to be lethal?
    • Where is antivenom kept and is there an access agreement with the supplier? Is anti-venom an option or is the time it takes to affect you not viable to access life-saving treatment?
  • Premises Site Plan
  • Animal Accommodation Specifications (size, material of construction, heating and lighting provision, fencing specifications etc)
  • Permission letter from landlord if in rented accommodation
  • Stock/ Species List (Latin name, common name, sex of animals and quantity kept)
  • Escape procedure and measures in place to prevent escape.
  • If in rented accommodation, evidence of permission from the landlord to keep a DWA must be supplied.
  • If in a premises of multiple occupancy, i.e., a HMO, block of flats or a row of terraced properties, you must have an emergency plan in the event of an escape to protect public safety.
    • What are the risks to public safety, what is the likelihood of the animal travelling between properties?
    • Are there things neighbours can do to keep themselves safe or is property evacuation needed?
    • Will you be available to respond to collect the animal if found locally?
    • How will the information be communicated?

Payments

You will need to pay a fee for your licence.  Please make sure you are aware of how much this will cost.

You will also need to pay the vet's fee for inspecting the premises.  We will ask you to pay this after the inspection has taken place.