Local government in Surrey is changing
From April 2027, the existing county council and 11 district and borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils. Learn more about Future Surrey
Apply for a licence for selling animals as pets, breeding dogs, hiring out horses, keeping or training animals for exhibition, boarding of dogs or cats.
Under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, those undertaking the following activities will need an animal activities licence:
Businesses must be given a star rating, ranging from one to five which must be listed on the licence. Safeguards including an appeal procedure and a mechanism for requesting a reinspection when improvements have been made will apply.
The star rating determines the length of the licence from one to three years (except keeping/training animals for exhibition which must be granted for three years). The cost is the same regardless of the licence length, rewarding compliant businesses and driving up standards in the sector.
If you have any questions or would like to find out more information about approved welfare businesses, please contact the Environmental Health team.
Email: environmental.health@surreyheath.gov.uk (link sends email)
Phone: 01276 707100
Details of licensed animal activities in Surrey Heath including home boarding, horse riding establishments, performing animals, pet shops and breeders can be found on our licensed animal activities webpage.