Toggle menu

Dangerous Wild Animals Licence

Anyone who wishes to keep an animal which is classified as a 'dangerous wild animal' must apply for the relevant licence. To see which animals this applies to, check the Dangerous Wild Animal Schedule.

Applying for a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence 

Caiman crocodile
Applicants are advised to read and familiarise themselves with West Lothian Council's Dangerous Wild Animals Licence Conditions [84KB] .

Anyone wishing to apply must:

Upon application for a licence, which has not previously been granted, the premises must be inspected by a veterinary surgeon and a local authority officer.  For subsequent applications the local authority has discretion as to whether the inspection is carried out by a veterinary surgeon or a local authority officer or both. A report following inspection shall be considered by the local authority before determining whether or not to grant a licence.

A separate invoice will be issued to cover the vets cost's once the inspection has taken place.  On receipt of this being paid and the licence conditions being met your new licence will be sent out. 

Once issued, licences will run until the 31st December of that year.  Licences run from 1st January - 31st December of any one year.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants will not be granted a licence if they have been convicted of an offence under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 or under:

  • Protection of Animals Act 1911-1964;
  • Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act 1912-1964;
  • Pet Animals Act 1951;
  • Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963;
  • Riding Establishments Act 1964-1970;
  • Breeding of Dogs Act 1973.

Dangerous Wild Animal Licenses in West Lothian

There are currently no individuals/ organisations with Dangerous Wild Animal Licences issued by West Lothian Council. 

Waste Management at Animal Welfare Licensed Premises

Please see Expected standards for waste management at licensed animal welfare premises.