Dangerous Wild Animals

Dangerous Wild Animals’ Licence (DWA) 

Under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 you will need a licence to keep certain animals for example: 

• wild cats 
• primates 
• wild dogs, for example wolves 
• wild boar 
• marsupials 
• alligators and caimans 
• crocodiles 

Full list of animals that need a licence. 

Hybrid or cross-bred animals may need a licence, depending on how far removed the animal is from its wild ancestor. 

This licence does not apply to zoos, circuses, pet shops or premises registered for animal experiments. 

Before we issue a licence, we will inspect the premises and consider: 

• the accommodation which should:  
• be secure 
• be suitable in size 
• have correct temperature settings for the animal 
• have adequate lighting and drainage 
• be kept clean  
• there is suitable food, drink and bedding material for the animal 
• that the animal is visited at suitable times 
• emergency provisions in case of fire or infectious disease 

You may need planning permission for keeping the animal(s).  Contact Planning to discuss whether permission will be needed. We cannot accept an application unless any relevant planning permission has been granted. 

A New Dangerous Wild Animals licence currently costs £191.00. 

Renewal of an existing licence costs £125.00. 

In each case, the applicant is required to pay the costs of the veterinary inspection.  

New Application 

Renewal Application 

Check out the General Licence Conditions. However, where appropriate, additional licence conditions may be attached to a licence by the Local Authority. 

Guidance and advice is also available online from the RSPCA Exotic Pets website. 

Contact 

Email: Licensing@sstaffs.gov.uk