Zoos

The Council is responsible for licensing zoos under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. The granting of a zoo licence is specialised and the government has specified standards of modern zoo practice. Prior to licensing and during the term of the licence, inspections of zoos are undertaken by a specialist vet appointed by the Secretary of State.

A zoo is defined as "any establishment other than a circus or pet shop, where wild animals are kept for public exhibition on more than 7 days in any consecutive 12 months" The Council currently has three licensed zoos.

• Standard Zoo Licence Conditions (PDF: 11Kb / 1 page)
• Application for the Renewal of an Existing Zoo Licence (Form A) (PDF: 18Kb / 1 page)
• Notice of intent to apply for a Zoo Licence (Form B) (PDF: 15Kb / 1 page)
• Notice of intent to apply for a Zoo Licence (Form C) (PDF: 18Kb / 4 pages)
• Application for a new Zoo Licence (Form D) (PDF: 14Kb / 1 page)

For further information:

• Contact: Food, Health and Safety Team, Mansion House, Penrith CA11 7YG
• Telephone: 01768 212491
• Email: env.health@eden.gov.uk
• Fax: 01768 890732