Selling Animals as Pets - Licence and permit applications

download our selling animals as pets licence application fees

Please note  we do not accept paper application forms, postal application forms, cash or cheque payments.  We only accept electronic licence application forms and payments made using our electronic submission form.

Please use the submission form to upload and pay for your licence application online. This will ensure that your completed application form, any supporting documents and payment are received at the same time

The application process may involve an inspection by a Veterinary Surgeon appointed by the Council. The full cost of this must be met by the applicant before a licence will be issued. The cost will vary depending on individual circumstances

A fully completed application form
The correct application fee
A copy of your Public Liability insurance document, and where necessary a copy of your Employers Public Liability insurance document
A copy of your current Risk Assessment
A layout plan of the premises to be licensed

Please note that we do not accept paper application forms, postal application forms, cash or cheque payments.  We only accept electronic licence application forms and payments made using our electronic submission form.

The business of selling animals as pets does not apply to persons operating an animal welfare establishment (an animal sanctuary or rehoming centre), engaging in other animal rehoming activities or licensed as a dog, cat or rabbit breeder (the breeding licence they hold allows for the direct supply of animals as pets).

Please note that all licence application fees are non refundable, you can download our refunds policy for more information. Any requests for a refund due to exceptional circumstances should be made in writing to the Licensing Manager, 249 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ or by email to: licensing@edinburgh.gov.uk 

The Scottish Government have produced guidance for Pet Sellers . You should click on the link below and ensure you read the guidance notes before you apply for a licence.

Selling Animals as Pets

download an application form

You must upload your completed application form, all required supporting documentation and make payment using our online submission form

The Animal (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 provide general conditions to be attached to all Animal Activities licences . The Regulations also provide specific conditions to be attached to Selling Animals as Pets licences . 

You can view the General and Specific conditions by clicking the links below:

General conditions
Specific conditions for selling animals as pets