Transfer of licence

The council must first approve the transfer of a zoo licence prior to the licence being transferred.

Displaying the licence 

The zoo licence or copy must be displayed at each entrance to the zoo.

Fines and penalties 

If you run a zoo without a licence or do not follow the conditions of a licence you can be fined up to £2,500.

A fine of up to £1,000 can be imposed if:

• a zoo inspector is prevented from doing their job properly
• a zoo does not correctly display the zoo licence

Failed application redress

If you are an applicant or a third party, you should always contact us in the first instance if you have any queries, concerns or cause for complaint preferably in the form of a letter with proof of delivery. If you are not satisfied with the outcome and are located in the UK, Citizens Advice Consumer Service will give you advice. If you are from outside the UK, please contact the UK European Consumer Centre 

Useful links:

• Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) website 
• Document

  Defra zoo licencing act 1981.pdf (PDF, 689.15KB) (PDF, 689.15KB)
• Zoo Licensing Act 1981 website 
• Document

  ECDC Zoo Licensing Policy.pdf (PDF, 300.12KB) (PDF, 300.12KB)