Animal welfare licensing

In Scotland, subject to exemptions, a licence is required to carry out certain activities involving animals under the regulations.

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 require that you have a license if you:

• breed a certain number of dogs, cats or rabbits
• operate an animal boarding facility
• operate a riding establishment, livery or any business involving horses
• operate an animal welfare establishment
• operate a rehoming centre
• sell animals as pets in the course of a business

Applications for a license for any of the above activities are issued by the local authority, subject to inspections by an Environmental Health Officer.

Before you apply

Please note that if you are applying for a new license, you may require planning permission. It is recommended that you contact Planning at an early stage to find out whether your application may be subject to any further requirements. This should be done before you submit your application and pay the required fees.

Criteria for licenses

Each license has specific criteria and conditions that you need to comply with.

Further information on the criteria for licenses, fees and the application process can be found by visiting the relevant page for the license type or by contacting Environmental Services.