Licence - dog breeding
Under the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973, as amended by the Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999, you must have a licence from the local authority to keep a breeding establishment for dogs.
Premises must be inspected by a council officer and a vet prior to issuing of the licence.
No person may operate a breeding establishment without first obtaining a licence from the council.
All premises used for or in connection with the establishment shall be kept clean at all times.
Applications for a licence must be made to the Council, and a licence may be issued if the applicant is not disqualified under any of the following Acts:
- The Breeding of Dogs Act 1973
- The Pet Animals Act 1951
- The Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act 1954
- The Protection of Animals (Cruelty to Dogs) (Scotland) Act 1934
There is an annual fee for premises, which must be paid at the time of application. Currently the fee is £200.
The licence shall permit any authorised officer of a local authority and/or fire officer, veterinary surgeon or veterinary practitioner so authorised, to enter the premises at all reasonable times and to inspect them and any animals found thereon, or anything found therein.
Before being granted a licence the application must be able to demonstrate to the Council’s Licensing Officer that the premises comply with the Council’s Standard Conditions.
Further information
If you would like further information, or would like to apply for a licence, please contact the Council’s Environmental Health Division on 01438 242908/242916, email envhealth@stevenage.gov.uk or, alternatively, download a copy of the application form. (See link below).