Apply for an animal welfare licence

When you need an animal welfare licence

You need an animal welfare licence if you want to:

• sell animals as pets
• provide or arrange boarding for cats or dogs
• breed dogs
• hire out horses
• keep or training animals for exhibition

Read guidance about animal activities licensing on GOV.UK

How we assess star ratings

When we grant an animal welfare licence, we give you a star rating.

The table below shows details of how we assess star ratings. It takes into account:

• animal welfare standards
• the level of risk based on elements such as past compliance

If you operate without a licence

It’s criminal offence to:

• undertake any of these activities without a licence
• fail to follow the licensing conditions

If you’re convicted, you’ll received a fine and may go to prison for up to 6 months.

If you breach your licence conditions

If we suspect you of breaching your licensing conditions, we’ll:

• start a graduated enforcement process
• always offer advice and informal warnings where we can

w may begin formal legal proceedings if:

• you still do not comply with the conditions of your licence
• the circumstances are particularly serious

We nay revoke your licence or refuse to renew it.

Legislation and policy

We undertake all assessments, inspections and enforcement action in accordance with:

• our Environmental health and trading standards enforcement policy
• The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 (GOV.UK)