Dangerous wild animals licence

The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 controls which animals need a licence.

This is separate from Zoo licences.

Who needs a licence

You will need to apply for a licence if you:

• have an exotic, dangerous or wild animal
• are not running a zoo, circus, pet shop or laboratory

You must:

• be 18 years or over
• not be disqualified or convicted under the Act
• own and possess (or plan to own and possess) the animal yourself

Examples of animals that need a licence include:

• wild cats
• primates
• wild dogs such as wolves
• certain pigs such as wild boar
• marsupials

See the full list of animals you need a licence for.

Before you apply

Keeping a dangerous wild animal requires a significant commitment.

Before applying you should consider:

• whether you have suitable space to house the animal correctly
• the costs of specialist veterinary care and insurance
• the need to source specialist food
• waste management and disposal
• secure storage of feed and regular removal of waste to avoid vermin
• whether to discuss your plans with neighbours

How to apply

To apply for a licence, you will need to request an application form.

Email Allerdale: [email protected]

Email Carlisle: [email protected]

Email Copeland: [email protected]

Costs and fees

Fees apply for new applications, renewals and variations (2025 to 2026)

After you've applied

After receiving your application and payment a licensing officer will arrange an inspection of your premises.

We will not grant a licence unless satisfied that:

• it is not contrary to the public interest in terms of safety or nuisance
• you are a suitable person to hold a licence and have adequate insurance
• animals will be kept in secure accommodation
• accommodation is suitable in terms of size, construction, temperature, lighting, ventilation, drainage and cleanliness
• you have plans for fire and other emergencies
• you can prevent and control the spread of disease
• animals will be suitably fed, watered and bedded
• animals are visited regularly and exercised

If your application is refused, you'll get a written notice. The fee will not be refunded. You can appeal to the magistrates' court.

Your licence

If your application is approved, your licence will:

• be sent to you in the post
• last for 2 years unless cancelled earlier
• include conditions specific to the type of animal you are keeping

Licence conditions

You must keep your animal in conditions that:

• create no risk to the public
• safeguard the welfare of the animal

Renewals

You must apply to renew your licence before it expires.

Renewals must include the correct fee.

Offences and penalties

It is an offence to:

• keep a dangerous wild animal without a licence
• breach the conditions of a licence

Penalties can include a fine, imprisonment or both.