Do I need a licence to breed dogs at home and sell them?

Yes, you are required to register with us if you breed dogs for sale, whether or not these dogs are to be sold by yourself or any other person. The requirement for a licence is also dependent on the number of bitches kept and the number of litters borne to those bitches. In addition there are legal requirements relating to bitches kept at your premises by a relative, or any other person, which give birth to puppies which are to be sold.

You are strongly advised to contact the Senior Environmental Health Officer responsible for licensing to discuss these details, on the number provided below.

Should you need a licence, an application form will be sent to you. On completion and return of the form, an Environmental Health Officer will inspect the premises. If this is a ‘first time’ application, then a Veterinary Surgeon will also be detailed to inspect your premises and the breeding bitches kept there.
This inspection will take into account the number of animals, the accommodation for the animals, the food preparation and isolation areas.  Details will be required of all bitches kept & litters sold.

A fee of £86 will be charged, before the licence is issued and the licence will remain in force for the period of one year from 1st January to 31 December. The Council will notify you approximately one month before the licence is due for renewal. 

If the premises you are intending to use is not already a Breeding Establishment you are advised to contact the Enforcement Officer in our Planning Department regarding 'change of use' of the premises on 01273 484444.

For further information and advice, or to request an application form, please telephone 01273 484358 or e-mail ehealth@lewes.gov.uk