Pet shop

To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from the local authority. 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.

A fee, determined by the local authority, will be payable on application.

 

Application evaluation process

Local authorities must consider the following when considering an application for a pet shop licence:

• 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.

Apply

View Gwynedd's application procedure

You must consult with Gwynedd Planning Service to see if planning consent is needed before you can apply for a licence.

For more information or an application form, contact us

• 01766 771000
• trwyddedu@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

 

Fees

Animal Licensing Establishments 2024 - 2025

Relevant legislation

• The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulation 2021
• The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations 2021 - Guidance notes for conditions for Selling Animals as Pets
• The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations 2021 - Licencing regime

Will tacit consent apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it.

Failed application redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance.

Any person who is refused a licence can appeal to the Magistrates court. A court may give directions on the issue of a licence.

Licence holder redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance.

Any licence holder who objects to a condition attached to a licence may appeal to the local Magistrates court. A court may give directions on the issue of a condition.

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, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Trade associations

Pet Care Trust (PCT)

Public Register

View the public register of Gwynedd pet shop licences