Zoos

Legislation

Zoo Licensing Act 1981

Summary

You’ll need a zoo licence if you’ll be displaying wild animals to the public for at least seven days a year, in any place that’s not a circus or pet shop. To receive a licence, you must be able to show that the zoo premises meet the specified criteria.

You are required to tell us at least two months prior to making an application. The notification is needed to specify certain information. It can be advertised in the public sections of certain newspapers. Planning permission will also be required for the zoo.

Following the initial notification and consultation process a formal application must be submitted.

We are obliged to consult with the Secretary of State during the application process and to discuss licence conditions.

The initial licence is valid for four years and upon renewal is valid for a six-year period.

Apply for a zoo licence

Applicant should contact us for further assistance and guidance relating to the application process.