Summary of rules
Selling of pet animals is governed by the Pet Animals Act 1951. To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from Runnymede Council. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.

Applicants for a pet shop licence must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.

Application evaluation process

Runnymede Council will take into account the following when considering an application for a pet shop licence:

• that animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regard to temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
• adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
• that any mammalian animals will not be sold too young
• that steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
• that adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place

Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.

Apply on-line

Apply to run a pet shop

Tell us about a change to your existing pet shop

Can consent be assumed?

No. It is in the public interest that the Council must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period of submitting your application, please contact us.You can do this on-line if you applied through the UK Welcomes Service or use the contact details below. Details on how to apply on-line will be available soon.

Where can I get further information?

Pet Care Trust (PCT)

Contact us

To find out more about selling pet animals within the Borough of Runnymede, please contact:
Runnymede Borough Council, Technical Services Department, Runnymede Civic Centre, Station Road, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 2AH.

Tel: 01932 425131 Fax: 01932 838384 e-mail: environmental.protection@runnymede.gov.uk