To run a business selling pet animals in the Waltham Forest area you need a licence from the Council. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants for a pet shop licence must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.

Licences cannot be issued if the applicant is disqualified under any of the following acts:

  • The Animal boarding Establishment Act 1963
  • The Pet Animals Act 1951
  • The Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act 1954
  • The Protection of animals (Cruelty to Dogs) (Scotland) Act 1934

Regulation summary

» See summary of the regulation relating to this licence on the Office of Public Sector Information website.

Application process

Fees will be payable for applications.

The following criteria will be considered when the application is being evaluated:

  • That animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regards to temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
  • Adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
  • That any mammalian animals will not be sold too young
  • That steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
  • That adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place

Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.

Will tacit consent apply?

Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if no representations have been received within 28 days of submitting your application.

Fees

Small animals and fish only £210

Small animals, fish and kittens £250

Small animals, fish, kittens and puppies £280

Apply online

Or alternatively:

If your application failed

Please contact Waltham Forest Direct and ask for the animal welfare team in the first instance.

An applicant whose application is refused can appeal to the local magistrates' court.

Licence holder redress

Please contact Waltham Forest Direct and ask for the animal welfare team in the first instance.

An applicant whose application is refused can appeal to the local magistrates' court.

Consumer complaint

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Directgov gives advice on your consumer rights. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Please contact Waltham Forest Direct and ask for the animal welfare team for matters concerning:

  • Other redress - include other complaints relating to another aspect of the operation such as noise, pollution or public health

Contact us

Environmental Health and Trading Standards
Environment and Regeneration
Waltham Forest Council
Sycamore House
Forest Road
Walthamstow E17 4JF

Tel 020 8496 3000
Email wfdirect@walthamforest.gov.uk