To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from the local authority. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.
Who can apply?
You should be familiar with the care and welfare of the animals sold. With regard to new applications, at least one member of staff working in the licensed premises must hold a City and Guilds Pet Store Management Certificate or equivalent qualification. Anyone applying must not be disqualified from keeping any animal.
Who looks after the animals when the shop is closed?
A licensee or designated key-holder must at all times be within reasonable distance of the premises and available to visit the premises in case of emergency. A list of key-holders must be lodged with the local police and fire service.
Can anybody buy a pet?
Persons under the age of 12 years, unless that person is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, are not permitted to purchase a pet.
What is the cost of a licence?
Please visit:
How do I apply?
The link below takes you to an external website which processes these applications on behalf of St Edmundsbury Borough Council:
How long does a licence last?
Until 31 December the first year a licence is granted, and then annually from 1 January to 31 December.
Will tacit authorisation apply?
Yes, you should expect that the council will determine this application within 28 days from the date on which it receives your application.
The clock starts when the completed application is submitted along with all the required information and documents requested, including fee. If the local authority spots an error or omission in the application, it can be placed on hold and the clock starts from the beginning when the applicant either supplies a correction or all the information requested.
If your application can not be determined because the council needs more information, you will be notified, and the clock will stop until the outstanding information is supplied.
If the council has received objections to the application which means that it will have to be referred to a licensing panel, you will be notified in writing. The period will then be extended to the date on which your application is determined at hearing, and you will be notified of the outcome of the hearing not later than ten working days after the day of the hearing.
What if my application is refused?
You may appeal to the local Magistrates' court.
Useful links:
Contact details
Licensing Services
St Edmundsbury Borough Council
West Suffolk House
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3YU
Phone: 01284 757103
Email: licensing@stedsbc.gov.uk
