Under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 & 1984, every creature classed as a dangerous wild animal has to be licensed by the local authority in which it will be kept. Animals requiring a licence before they may be kept are listed in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (Modification) Order 2007.

The dangerous wild animal licence does not apply to animals kept in a zoo, circus, licensed pet shop, or place of scientific research.

Keeping any dangerous wild animal will require a great deal of commitment in order to ensure its well being. You should be certain that you are prepared to take on this commitment.

You must carry out the necessary research to ensure you are fully aware of the care and facilities which the animal requires.

Some animals can grow quite large and need adequate space for exercise. You should consider whether you have the space to house the animal correctly.

The animal you want to keep might require treatment from a specialist vet. Make sure you're able to afford to pay for vets' bills.

How to apply

Download the application to keep a dangerous wild animal (PDF, 0.2MB).

If you need a copy of any of these application forms in plain text, email licensing@sutton.gov.uk.

Post your completed form to:

London Borough of Sutton
Licensing Team
Civic Offices
St Nicholas Way
Sutton
SM1 1EA

You should keep a copy of the completed form for your own records.

We will examine the information provided and contact you to arrange an inspection.

Fees

Details of the fees payable are available on our fees page.

All of our fees are split into two parts. The first part of the fee is payable upon application and is non refundable. The first part of the fee covers the cost of processing your application, any inspection and follow up work.

If your application is successful the second part of the fee is payable before the licence is issued. If you do pay both parts of the fee up front and your application is not successful, the part 2 fee is refundable.

Inspections

Dangerous Wild Animal inspections are carried out by someone from Sutton Council and a veterinary surgeon. The inspectors want to make sure that the accommodation for the animal(s) is suitable.

They will consider:

  • the construction and size of the quarters
  • temperature and lighting
  • ventilation
  • drainage and cleanliness
  • the number of animals proposed to be held in the accommodation
  • appropriate steps will be taken for the protection of any animal in case of fire or other emergency
  • appropriate steps will be taken to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases

They will also ask you questions to ensure that you have adequate knowledge of the species to provide suitable care and environment for the animal.

Documentation

You will be asked to provide:

  • proof of suitable insurance cover
  • documented risk assessments which detail how the animal can be fed safely
  • how the enclosure will be cleaned safely
  • how the animal can be handled should it require medical attention

Issuing your licence

After you've been inspected (and upon completion of any required remedial works), we aim to issue your licence with 10 working days.

Length of licence

A licence lasts for 12 months and must be renewed annually.

You should apply to renew your licence 6 weeks before your current licence expires.

Public Register

There are currently no active dangerous wild animal licences in Sutton.