Zoos

Zoos

A zoo is ‘an establishment where wild animals are kept for exhibition … to which members of the public have access, with or without charge for admission, seven or more days in any period of twelve consecutive months’. The wide scope of this definition means that licensed zoos range from traditional urban zoos and safari parks to small specialist collections such as butterfly houses and aquaria. The Zoo Licensing Act 1981 (as amended) requires the inspection and licensing of all zoos in Great Britain. The Act aims to ensure that, where animals are kept in enclosures, they are provided with a suitable environment to provide an opportunity to express most normal behaviour.

How do I apply?

You can apply by downloading and completing the application form, returning it to the Council by email (licensing@tewkesbury.gov.uk) or by post to The Licensing Department, Tewkesbury Borough Council, Public Services Centre, Gloucester Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5TT. You will also need to pay the correct fee.

We recommend that applicants check they have the correct permissions to use their property or premises for the business applied for. It is important to do this before applying, as the application fee is not refundable. Checks will be carried out by us to ensure all relevant permissions, such as planning consent are in place at the application stage.

Once a completed application and payment has been received, we will examine the information provided and contact applicants to arrange an inspection.

What to include when applying

You must give details about:

• where the zoo will be
• what kind of animals you’re going to keep and how many
• how you will house and care for the animals
• staff numbers and what they will be doing
• expected visitor and vehicle numbers
• zoo entrance and exit points
• how you will meet the conservation conditions.

You must also:

• publish a notice that you are intending to apply in at least one local and one national newspaper
• display the notice at the planned zoo site.

Fees

Details of the fees payable are available on our list of fees and charges.

Inspections

Zoo inspections are carried out by a representative of the Local Authority and two approved specialist inspectors. Zoo Inspectors are appointed under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. They are responsible (as part of a team) for inspecting zoos and making recommendations to local authorities on the granting of licences. The Act provides for inspectors to consider and advise on the well-being of the animals, the health and safety of the visiting public and those living nearby. One inspector will be a veterinary surgeon and the second inspector will be someone who can advise on the management of zoos.

Documentation

Prior to inspection, you will be asked to submit a pre-inspection audit. The audit provides the inspecting officers with details of the operation of the premises, the collections, staff and their qualifications, record keeping, veterinary provision, security and conservation works, amongst other things. Following each inspection, a report will be issued detailing any works required.

Issuing your licence

Once inspected and upon completion of any required remedial works, we aim to issue your licence within 20 working days.

Length of licence

New zoo licences are initially granted for a period of 4 years, during the lifetime of the licence you will be required to undergo inspections at regular intervals.