Performing animals

The registration of performing animals falls under the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925.

It is an offence for anyone to train or exhibit a performing animal unless they are registered to do so. The Act is designed to cover the use of animals in stage performances, at circuses, as part of exhibitions etc.

Shepway District Council has banned the use of performing animals in a circus.

Anybody wishing to use animals to perform within Shepway must contact the Licensing Team. Any premises exhibiting animals within Shepway must also register. Anyone performing in Shepway, but living outside, should also register with their own authority.

No person should engage in animal performances without having a risk assessment carried out by a competent person. Advice should be sought from one of the following:

• trained animal handler
• veterinarian
• zoo
• university department.

Contact Details

Licensing Team  Environmental Services
Environment and Planning
Shepway District Council
Civic Centre
Castle Hill Avenue
Folkestone, CT20 2QY

   01303 853526/853407

   01303 853294

  licensing @ shepway.gov.uk