Animal welfare licence - Defra guidance

Animal welfare licence old

Animal welfare licence - Defra guidance

Defra guidance

Defra are responsible for creating the new regulation via powers given to them by the Animal Welfare Act 2006. They have provided statutory guidance that the Licensing Authority must have regard to. Each licensable activity has its own specific guidance, and any person wishing to conduct that licensable activity must be able to comply with the minimum standards contained within the relevant document. The links below take you to the updated guidance which came into force on the 1 February 2022, replacing all guidance documents issued previously. 

Defra have also provided procedural guidance for licensing officers. This is provided on the link below, and illustrates how the licensing authority will administer and enforce the new regulations.

Defra - Procedural guidance for local authorities

Veterinarian inspection

If you are applying for a new dog breeding licence, or if you are applying for a new or the renewal of a horse hiring activity licence, you will require a veterinarian inspection. In accordance with the guidance issued under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals)(England) Regulations 2018, the Council must appoint the veterinarian who conducts the inspection of the premises prior to the inspection taking place. Due to this it is essential to receive confirmation of veterinarian appointment from the Licensing Authority prior to any inspection commencing. It is also essential that the veterinarian inspection is booked to take place at the same time as the visit by the Licensing Authority officer. The veterinarian fees must be settled directly with the veterinary practice prior to the inspection taking place.

Animal Welfare Licensing Policy

East Cambridgeshire District Council has produced an animal licensing policy to assist all parties.