Zoos
Why is a Licence required?
The Zoo Licensing Act 1981 came into force in 1984. The Act requires the inspection and licensing of all zoos in Great Britain. The Act aims to ensure that, where animals are kept in enclosures, they are provided with a suitable environment to provide an opportunity to express most normal behaviour.
Who should apply?
Any person(s) keeping wild animals (as defined in Section 21 of the Zoo Licensing Act 1981) for the purpose of public exhibition, with or without charge, on more than seven days in any consecutive twelve months, with the exception of circuses, pet shops or registered establishments for carrying out animal experiments
More information is available from the Area Licensing Office or by visiting the Zoo licensing pages on Defra's website.
How to apply
The applicant(s) must, at least two months before making application, give notice in writing on the relevant form to the Council of their intention to make an application and publish a notice of that intention in a local and national newspaper. In addition a copy of that notice must be exhibited at the site.
Please use the links on the right of this page to apply or exchange information.
Alternatively, an application form can be obtained using the contact details on the right of this page.
You will need to complete an application form and return it together with the fee to the area licensing office.
Fees
Is there an appeal process?
Please contact Powys County Council in the first instance.
Service Contact
There are contact details available in a number of locations for this Service. Please select your nearest town:
Application Forms
The links below take you to another website which processes these applications on behalf of Powys County Council.
Application for a licence to operate a zoo
Application to change a zoo licence
Legislation
The Zoo Licensing Act 1981 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2002
