Dangerous wild animal licensing

Anyone wanting to keep a dangerous wild animal in Oxford will require a licence from us.

Animals which are classified as dangerous wild animals are set out in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (modification) order 2007 No 1437, which came into force on 1 October 2007. This list of species consists mainly of animals not native to the UK. However, it cannot be assumed that all animals liable to cause harm appear on the list, as some do not.

The purpose of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 is to prevent harm to humans from escaped animals and provide measures of protection for the captive animals.

Disqualifications

You must not be disqualified from any of the following at the time of application:

• Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976
• Protection of Animals Act 1911 and 1964
• Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act 1912 and 1964
• Pet Animals Act 1951
• Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963
• Riding Establishment Act 1964 and 1970
• Breeding of Dogs Act 1973 

How to apply

Use the application form below to apply for a licence:

Download the Dangerous wild animals application form.

To be valid, an application must be made by someone over 18, who have not been disqualified from keeping any dangerous wild animal. 

Upon receipt of a valid application we must be satisfied that:

• granting the licence is not contrary to the public interest on the grounds of safety or nuisance
• the applicant is a suitable person to hold the licence
• the animal's accommodation is escape-proof and of suitable construction, size, temperature, lighting, ventilation and drainage

Once an application has been received, we will arrange for an inspection of the premises by an authorised officer. The findings of this report will be considered before a licence is granted.

Licences will come into force immediately once granted and are renewable after two years.

Number of licences issued

There are currently no Dangerous Wild Animal Licences issued in Oxford.

Fees and charges

The annual fee is £490 plus vets fees.

This fee does not include any vet's fees that may be incurred. If needed, specialist advice will be sought from a veterinary surgeon. Any costs associated with this will be passed on to the applicant.

Fees are reviewed every year and were correct at time of publication.