Pet Shop Licence

Pet Animals Acts 1951

The keeping of a pet shop refers to the carrying on at premises of any nature (including a private dwelling) of a business of selling animals as pets. This excludes keeping or selling pedigree animals bred privately or the offspring of animals kept as pets. Selling animals as pets as a business is prohibited in any part of a street, in a public place, or at a stall or barrow in a market. Mammals are not to be sold at too early an age.

You can now apply and pay on-line for a Pet Shop Licence by clicking on this link

Winchester City Council is responsible for licensing establishments, shops or individuals that are involved in activities concerning animals. Licences usually run from 1 January (or when issued) until 31 December and are renewable annually. The licence charges are listed below.

Conditions


Winchester City Council must impose any conditions on the licence that it considers to be necessary, such as:

  • Animals will be kept in accommodation that is suitable regarding size, temperature, lighting, ventilation, and cleanliness.
  • Animals will be supplied with adequate food, drink, and bedding material.
  • Animals will be adequately exercised and visited regularly.
  • Precautions will be taken to prevent the spread of infectious or contagious diseases.
  • Appropriate steps will be taken in case of fire or other emergency.

Refusal of licence


Licenses may be refused, cancelled or revoked for several reasons (please note that not all the restrictions are relevant to all licenses). The courts may disqualify applicants from holding an animal licence for a set period of time:

  • If the applicant is under 18.
  • If the applicant has been disqualified from holding an animal licence or keeping an animal.
  • If conditions of the licence are not met.

Additionally, veterinary surgeons and practitioners, local authority officers, or competent persons authorised by the local authority may inspect licensed premises and any animals found there at any reasonable time. Unlicensed premises may be inspected by applying for a warrant.

Fees

The fees for Animal Licensing in 2012 are as follows:
Pet Shops £175.00