I am keeping an unusual pet do I need to let anyone know?

Yes you are required, under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, to register with this authority if you are keeping a pet determined as a "dangerous wild animal".  Some of the pets in this category are: marsupials, primates, wild rodents (such as porcupines), wild cats and dogs (such as tigers and wolves), bears, elephants, wild horses (such as zebras), camels, antelopes, buffalo, ostriches, crocodiles and venomous spiders (such as the funnel web and the black widow).  If you are unsure whether your pet is classed as a dangerous wild animal, please contact us on the number below.   

On notification an application form will be sent to you.  Following receipt of an application the Council will arrange for a vet to inspect the premises and the animal(s), and for an Environmental Health Officer to visit.  Both will need to agree the relevant conditions are being met before a licence is granted.

The cost to the applicant will consist of a £105 statutory charge and veterinary fees. You will be invoiced after both inspections have taken place and, once approved, a licence will be issued. 

The licence will run for a period of one year from 1st January to 31 December and the Council will notify you approximately one month before your licence expires, reminding you that renewal of your licence is due.   If you no longer keep a dangerous wild animal, you should contact Environmental Health and the licence will be cancelled.

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