Hiring out horses
Businesses that hires out horses or ponies for riding, trekking or instructions must be licensed. This includes commercial riding schools and other businesses where horses or ponies are made available to the public.
Who needs a licence
You need a licence if you:
- operate a riding school or establishment where horses or ponies are hired out for riding
- provide horses or ponies for trekking, hacking or trail riding
- use horses or ponies for riding lessons or instruction, whether indoors or outdoors
- provide horses or ponies for riding in connection with other activities or events
- hire out horses for hunting (hunter hirelings)
- provide instruction in polo or polocrosse
- provide donkey rides
These activities are licensable whether or not you are making a profit.
Who does not need a licence
A licence is not usually needed if you:
- keep horses or ponies solely for your personal use
- run an activity where horses are not hired out or used for riding or instruction
See the DEFRA statutory guidance for hiring out horses.
How to apply
To apply or renew your licence, you will need to complete and submit the application form.
Send your application to:
Email: Environmental.Health@cumberland.gov.uk
An approved vet will inspect your premises. You will need to pay for the veterinary inspection as well as the application fee.
Licence conditions
If you are granted a licence, you must meet conditions covering:
- the suitability of the horses, including age, health and fitness
- accommodation, feeding, exercise and protection from the elements
- regular inspection of horses by a veterinary surgeon
- record keeping on the use, treatment and disposal of horses
- staff knowledge, training and competence
- insurance cover for riders and third parties
Each licensed business is awarded a star rating from 1 to 5, based on welfare standards and compliance. This rating must be displayed with your licence. Details of how star ratings are calculated are set out in the the DEFRA Procedural Guidance for Local Authorities.
See Schedule 5 of the 2018 Regulations for the full conditions.
Guidance
Find more guidance about hiring out horses licence on GOV.UK
Trade associations
You may find additional advice, training and resources from trade associations such as:
British Equestrian Trade Association - equipment standards and safety guidance
Association of British Riding Schools - professional support for riding schools and instructors
British Equestrian Federation - umbrella body for equestrian sport and welfare
British Dressage - governing body for dressage in the UK