Zoos are regulated by the council under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. We work in close partnership with the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on all aspects of zoo licensing.
If you are thinking of setting up a zoo, we recommend that you contact a specialist officer first for advice and guidance.
We cannot consider an application unless at least two months notice of the application has been given, plus publication of details in a local and national newspaper, and a notice placed at the site.
We must consult the police, fire authority, governing body of any national institute concerned with zoos, adjoining authority if the zoo overlaps the area of that authority and any person wishing to object on grounds of alleged injurious effect on the health or safety of people living in the area.
The council must arrange an inspection by a consultant inspector from the list of suitable inspectors nominated by the Secretary of State.
Fees
The licence fees for 2023 - 2024 are £2,140 plus vet fees for new applications, the duration of which is 3 years and £2,590 plus vet fees for renewals, the duration of which is 6 years.
How to apply
If you are a first time applicant, please give notice by contacting us on 0151 443 4712.
If you are renewing your licence, download, complete and return a renewal application form with the correct fee.
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