Zoos

A licence is required for any person wishing to keep a collection of animals not normally native to this county.  All animal welfare related law is currently being reviewed by Government.

Please contact us if you are trying to find a licensed establishment in Wychavon, or if you are thinking of starting a zoological collection.

We try to make sure that all animals are well looked after, that the layout of any facilities are suitable and that staff are trained.  It's very unlikely that anyone will be able to open a zoo for purely commercial reasons: there has to be a genuine educational or conservation reason.

An initial licence is for a zoo lasts for four years.  Renewed licences last 6 years.

The application process is complex; however there is much guidance available.  Please contact .us.

We become responsible for the cost of care of animals in default of the licensee. If this happens, euthanasia is considered a last option.  New guidelines have been issued recently by the Secretary of State.

Applicants for Zoo licences must advertise their intention nationally.  We talk with the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) who nominate a Vet to do an initial inspection and report (paid for by the applicant).

We inspect annually, and there is an interim inspection by the DEFRA nominated Vet.

Applicants have right of appeal to a Magistrates Court against refusal of a licensing authority to grant a licence, and against any conditions that may have been attached to a licence.

To download an application form, please visit our forms and fact sheets page.

Anyone suffering nuisance due to noise, smells or similar because of a commercial premises should contact the Environmental Protection team to see if we can help (email environmental.health@wychavon.gov.uk, phone 01386 565233).

Grant of a licence doesn't mean that we've given planning permission: consent under town and country planning law may still be required. Please contact our Planning Services on 01386 565565.