The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 aims to ensure that where private individuals keep dangerous wild animals they do so in circumstances which create no risk to the public and which safeguard the welfare of the animals. Animals which are classified as "dangerous wild animals" are identified in an accompanying schedule to the Act.

In addition to powers of inspection, the Act also gives the Council powers to seize any animal being kept on premises which are unlicensed. Zoos, pet shops and circuses are exempt from the provisions of the Act as these premises are subject to separate licensing requirements.

Anyone carrying on such a business who is not licensed should apply for a licence by contacting Technical Services and appropriate information and/or forms will be provided. An initial inspection of the premises will be carried out, followed by an annual inspection, upon renewal of the licence.