Introduction
If you want to run a business that sells animals as pets, you will need a licence.
When we get your application, we’ll arrange an inspection. We’ll check licence conditions that cover:
- accommodation
- food, drink and exercise
- precautions to prevent the spread of disease
- measures in the event of an emergency
- records kept at the premises
After inspection, you’ll get a star rating between 1 and 5. You can find out more about the rating system in the DEFRA guidance notes.
We strongly advise you to read Guidance Notes for Selling Animals as Pets for more information on best practice.
Application form
To apply for this licence please complete the animal boarding application form
Report unlicensed pet shop
If you know or suspect someone is selling animals as pets without a licence, you can report it to us by using our contact us page.
We will investigate reports to check if the premises has a licence.
Fees and charges
To apply for an Animal Licence, you must first pay the Application Fee. Once the licence is approved, you will also be required to pay for the number of years the licence is issued for.
Current fees and charges can be found on our Fees and charges page.
Register of licensed animal businesses
You can find a list of registered animal businesses on our public registers page.