If you keep or train animals for exhibition you will need to be licensed.  Current and new licence holders must apply 10 weeks before their current licence expires or they start exhibiting.

Conditions

We will inspect licensed premises annually to ensure that they comply with licence conditions.

The standards relate to:

  • Safety
  • Security
  • Infectious disease control
  • The suitability of the licence holder

The aim is to:

  • Ensure the welfare of animals
  • Prevent the spread of disease
  • Ensure the safety of the public visiting these premises

Periodic inspections are carried out to confirm standards are maintained. We will also investigate all complaints.

For more information on the licence and full details of the conditions please read the keep or train animals guidance from DEFRA.

Length of licence

The term of this licence is three years.

DBS Check

All applicants will need a basic DBS check less than two months old when the application is made. You can request a check from GOV.UK.

  Request a basic DBS check Opens in a new window

Current registered businesses

Registrations held under the old system will continue in force until the 1 April 2019. Businesses will then need to make an application for a licence under the new regime and comply with the new requirements.

Fees

You will also need to pay the costs of Vets fees as required.

Application Fee (see Footnote) Fee payable when making application (Part A) Fee payable when application successful and before licence is issued (Part B) Total Fee (Part A and B)
Keep or Train animals for exhibition £382 £168 £550

Applications

You can apply for a licence by completing an application form and sending it us along with the correct fee.

  Download a keep or train animals application