To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from the local authority. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.

Applicants for a pet shop licence must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.

A fee, determined by the Local Authority, will be payable on application.

A summary of the regulation relating to this licence

Local authorities must have regard to the following when considering an application for a pet shop licence:

• that animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regards to temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
• adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
• that any mammalian animals will not be sold too young
• that steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
• that adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place

Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.

Apply to run a pet shop

Tell us about a change to your existing pet shop

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

Any person who is refused a licence can appeal to the Magistrates court or, in Scotland, the Sheriff covering the area the premises is located. A court or Sheriff may give directions on the issue of a licence.

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

Any licence holder who objects to a condition attached to a licence may appeal to the local Magistrates court or, in Scotland, the Sheriff covering the area the premises is located. A court or Sheriff may give directions on the issue of a condition.

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

E.g. about noise, pollution, etc. Also should one licence holder complain about another.

Pet Care Trust (PCT)