Primate Licence
Primate Licensing Regulations – Coming into Force 6 April 2026
From 6 April 2026, anyone who keeps or plans to keep a non-human primate in England must hold a Primate Licence issued by their local authority, as required by The Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024.
Do you need a licence?
You must apply if you:
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Currently, privately keep a primate in England, or
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Plan to keep a primate from 6 April 2026, and
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The primate is not already covered by a Zoo Licence or ASPA licence.
Licence requirements:
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Meet zoo-level welfare standards, including housing, diet, veterinary care, and provision for normal behaviours.
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A premises inspection will be carried out by an experienced veterinary surgeon or an experienced zookeeper alongside a local authority inspector before a licence is issued.
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Licences are issued only to individuals aged 18 or over. Licences can be granted for up to three years, but the local authority may issue for a shorter period if appropriate.
Fees:
Fees are detailed in the full fee schedule – please refer to this for the latest charges and any inspection fees.
Important: Keeping a primate without a licence is a criminal offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Further guidance and application
You can now access Rossendale Borough Council’s: