Dangerous wild animals
You will need a licence to keep an animal considered to be wild, dangerous or exotic under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. This licence does not cover animals kept in a zoo or circus.
You must make sure the animal is kept in conditions which:
- create no risk to the public
- safeguard the welfare of the animals
We do not currently have any licensed dangerous wild animals in the borough.
Before you make your application
Make sure you understand the process and can meet the standard conditions (which will be made specific to your premises). Please email licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk with a contact number and details of your plans and an officer will contact you to discuss the proposal before you incur any expense.
Or you can contact us by post:
Animal Licensing Team
Cheltenham Borough Council
Municipal Offices
Cheltenham
GL50 9SA
Which animals need a licence?
Animals you need a licence for include:
- Wild cats
- Primates
- Wild dogs such as wolves
- Certain pigs, such as wild boar
- Marsupials
- Crocodiles
You can find the full list in the legislation.