How To Get Zoo Licence In London
Many people living in large cities like London do not get a chance to experience most types of animals during their daily life. But then there are zoos, which are mostly run by the local government which uses them as public entertainment venues and education and research facilities. However there are some zoos that are privately run. They showcase either specific animals or are personal collections of an individual. In order to build a zoo, individuals or companies first need to get permission from the local council and obtain a zoo license. If a zoo license is not obtained before a zoo facility is set up, the government can prosecute the owner for breaking laws.
Instructions
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1
Purpose of a Zoo License
A Zoo License is required if animals are housed and shown to the public for a reason other than a pet shop or circus. If you have another reason for keeping animals, then different licenses will be required. -
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Local Authority
A zoo license is not issued by a central government body of the United Kingdom. Instead, local councils are the ones tasked with looking at applications and giving approval. This allows each local authority to have its own set of specific rules.
In order to apply to a local council, you must first find the correct one. An application must be lodged with the council where the zoo is completely or majorly located. Click Here to see London's local councils and their websites. You can find their contact numbers and pick up the application forms from the local council office. -
3
Conditions before applying
Before you submit your application for a zoo license, you must send a notice of your intention to apply for the license directly to the local authority. Furthermore, a month before the application, you should publish a notification in at least one local and one national newspaper. The notifications should have the following information:
- Location of the Zoo
- Type of animals at the zoo
- Number of animals at the zoo
- Staff numbers and categories
- Details of access points to the zoo
- Parking location -
4
Inspections
Once you have submitted the notification, the zoo facilities will be inspected by the local authority before a license is approved. In most cases you will get a notification 28 days before-hand. The zoo must meet or exceed all criteria in order for the license to be approved. -
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Issuance of License
You will be issued a license if the application process goes smoothly. In some cases there is a fee, but you will need to consult the concerned local authority for details. The license will be valid for four years and you will be subject to inspections all through the license period.
