Animal welfare licensing

An animal welfare establishment is a place in Scotland where:

• animals that have been abandoned or otherwise separated from their keepers, or
• sick, injured or captured animals that were previously living in a wild state,

are kept for their care.

When you need a license

You will require a license if you keep at the same time:

• 5 dogs, or
• 5 equines, or
• 5 animals comprising a mix of dogs and equines, or
• 8 animals (of any type – except any animal under the age of 4 months born within the establishment or received into the establishment with its mother)

Before you apply

Read the guidance on welfare establishments from gov.scot.

Make sure you download and read the license conditions.

If you are applying for a new license, you may require planning permission.

Fees

£176.52 application fee, plus vet's fee (variable depending on premises). 

How to apply

To apply, contact Environmental Services for an animal rehoming or welfare establishment application form.

What happens after you apply

After we receive your form and fee:

• we will contact you to arrange an inspection of your premises
• if your premises meet the required standards, we will issue your licence
• if your application is refused, we will explain why. You can appeal or reapply at any time

We must process your application before a licence can be granted, so tacit consent does not apply. If you have not heard from us within 28 days, contact Environmental Services for an update.

Can anyone object?

No - there is no objection process for this licence.