Pet shop licence

Apply for a pet shop licence

Selling animals as pets

The definition of selling animals as pets is: Selling animals as pets (or with a view to their being later resold as pets) in the course of a business including keeping animals in the course of a business with a view to their being so sold or resold.

Examples, of selling animals as pets 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.

This list is not exhaustive and applications will be assessed on a case by case basis. Do I need a licence?

If you sell animals as pets from any type of premises (including a private dwelling) you will need a licence. If your business fulfils one or more of these criteria then you require a licence. You can view the guidance and apply for a licence below.