New licensing rules for keeping primates
New national regulations are being introduced to improve the welfare of primates kept by private individuals.
From 6 April 2026, anyone who keeps a primate – such as a monkey, lemur or marmoset – will need to hold a primate licence issued by their local council. This change is being introduced to ensure that primates are kept in appropriate conditions that meet their complex welfare needs.
The new rules apply to people who keep primates as pets or in private collections. Zoos and establishments already licensed under other animal welfare legislation are not affected.
As the local licensing authority, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council will be responsible for issuing licences, carrying out inspections and ensuring that licence conditions are met in the borough. Keeping a primate without a licence after April 2026 will be a criminal offence.
More information for private primate keepers in Newcastle-under-Lyme is available here.