Under the The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, certain animals such as some snakes, ostriches and big cats can only be kept under a licence that is issued by a local authority. Animals kept in zoos, circuses and pet shops are currently exempt. This a particularly niche area of law in which our solicitors have experience.
Proposals have been tabled to change the law on keeping dangeous wild animals that will mean ;
- No mandatory requirement for inspection for certain replacement licences, to allow targeting of inspections where there may be concerns.
- Local authorities will still be able to make inspections whenever required.
- Validity of a licence extended from a maximum of one year to two years.
- Licences will come into force immediately upon being granted.
Please visit this page to find updates as and when they occur.
