Selling animals as pets (pet shop) licence

What activities require a licence?

Activities that require a licence

These are:

  • the import, distribution and sale of animals by a business
  • businesses registered with Companies House
  • businesses or individuals operating from domestic premises for commercial purposes (it should be noted that many may not be listed with Companies House)
  • premises open to members of the public or to other businesses where animals are available for purchase

There is further guidance that we must consider, when determining whether an activity is being carried on in the course of a business. This includes:

  • whether the operator makes any sale by, or otherwise carries on, the activity with a view to making a profit
  • whether the operator earns any commission or fee from the activity

There is also government advice that anyone with a trading income of less than £1,000 should not be considered to be operating a business.

Activities that do not require a licence

For example:

  • the infrequent sale of a small number of surplus offspring/excess stock by a private individual who breeds animals as a hobby, for pleasure, exhibition for prize, or for education, study or scientific advancement. For low value species that may produce large numbers of excess stock, consideration should be given to the value of the stock and the likelihood that the seller is making a profit
  • organised events where people meet to sell surplus animals they have bred, or animals that are surplus to their requirements, whether or not this is open to the public. Selling pet animals as a business from a market or stall is prohibited under Section 2 of the Pet Animals Act 1951
  • aquacultural production businesses that are authorised under regulation 5(1) of the Aquatic Animal Health (England and Wales) Regulations 2009, and that are inspected by the Fish Health Inspectorate

How long does a licence last for?

A licence is valid for one, two or three years depending on inspection and star grading.

Refunds

Refunds of licence fees are not normally given. Only in exceptional circumstances, as deemed by the Head of Regulatory Services, will a refund be considered. Any refunds given may be subject to an administration charge or reduced if officers or the council’s vet have made site visits.