Pet Shop Licence

To run a business selling pet animals from premises 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.

We try to make sure that all animals are well looked after, that pets will be looked after once they are sold, that the layout of any facilities are suitable and that staff are trained.

Licences can only be issued for one year, and should be on display.

We do not licence one day bird sales because we are unable to issue one day licences, and often the facilities cannot meet the conditions for bird welfare that we would apply to pet shops.

Veterinary inspection is arranged for new premises and sometimes during the year, particularly where obvious problems are found to exist or complaints are received.

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.

Grant of a licence doesn't mean that we've given planning permission: consent under town and country planning law may still be required. Please contact our Planning Services on 01386 565565.

Read the legislation controlling sale of animals as pets

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 us within ten working days, please contact us. You can do this online here if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.

Online facilities are provided by the national business link website:

Apply through the Business Link website to run a pet shop in Wychavon 

Not yet available: application to change a pet shop licence

Please contact us, in the first instance.

Applicants can appeal to the local Magistrates' Court if we refuse to grant an application, or where we apply unreasonable conditions.

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.

Anyone suffering nuisance due to noise, smells or similar because of a commercial premises should email Worcestershire Regulatory Services to see if they can help (email environmental.health@wychavon.gov.uk, phone 01386 565015).

Pet Care Trust (PCT)