Keeping dangerous wild animals

Any person keeping a dangerous wild animal is required to hold a licence from the local authority/council. To check if an animal is classed as a dangerous wild animal, refer to the official list from the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). 

This licence does not apply to animals kept at a zoo, circus, pet shop, or scientific laboratory. Such cases would need a zoo licence. 

How to apply for a licence

Contact our Health and Environmental team by emailing licensing@scambs.gov.uk.

Licence conditions

The annual licence can only be issued after an inspection by one of our Animal Welfare Officers. The licence must state which animal it relates to and where the animal will normally be kept and number of such animals to be permitted. 

The licence cannot be issued if it would be unsafe to the public, or the applicant is not a suitable person and conditions are not suitable and secure for the animals.  

Fees

The fee is £395 (plus relevant vet fees are to be expected).