Dangerous Wild Animals

A licence is required for anybody wishing to keep a dangerous wild animal. The only time a licence is not required is if the animal is kept in a zoo, pet shop or at a circus.

For further information and/or details of those animals considered to be dangerous under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 please contact Commercial Services on the contacts below.

The licence requires the owner to keep the animal in suitable and safe conditions, for the welfare of the animal and protection of the public.

All premises must be inspected by a veterinary officer before a licence can be granted.

Licences can be refused or issued subject to specific conditions, including:

• Requirements that they will not be moved from the licenced premises (unless allowed for in the licence)
• The licence holder must be insured against liability
• Restrictions on the species and number of animals to be kept

If a dangerous wild animal is being kept without the authority of a licence or in contravention of a licence condition, the local authority may seize the animal and retain it, destroy it or otherwise dispose of it.

For further information please contact the Council's Customer Services Centre on 01628 683820 or complete the on line form.

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