The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 requires that anyone keeping a animal of the type listed in the Schedule to the Act hold a licence issued by the local authority for the area in which the animal is kept.
There are some exemptions to this for licensed zoos.
Please contact us if you are unsure as to whether you need a licence for an animal species that you would like to keep.
Applying for a licence
The application must be made by the person who owns the animal.
When we receive your application and fee, an inspection of your premises will be carried out by a qualified inspector and will focus on the animal welfare, security, and health and safety arrangements that are in place or proposed. There will also be an assessment as to applicant’s suitability to hold a licence for the species concerned.
That will result in a report about the suitability of your application together with a recommendation from the Inspector as to whether a licence could be granted or if it should be refused.
We will have due regard to the report and recommendations when considering an application.
A licence will not be granted until we are satisfied you can meet the correct requirements.
Primates
If you are applying for a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence to keep a primate then you may also need to apply for a Primate Licence at the same time. Please see our Primate Licence page for more information.
Renewals
Holders of DWA licences will need to ensure that an application to renew their licence is made at least 3 months prior to its expiry.
Licence fee
The initial fee (part 1) covering the cost of processing your application are payable with your application. The cost of the inspection will also be recharged to the applicant.
If the licence is approved, an additional fee (part 2) is payable to cover the cost of that licence that will run for a period of 2 years.
Information about fees can be found on our animal welfare licensing fees page.
For further enquiries regarding application forms and fees, please contact us.
Contact us
Any enquiries or requests for further information can be made to animalwarden@hounslow.gov.uk.
