Pet shops
To run a business selling pet animals in South Tyneside you need a licence from South Tyneside Council.
This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.
Apply for a licence
Apply for a pet shop licence
Apply to renew your licence
Renew your pet shop licence
Apply to change your licence
Make a change to your pet shop licence
Eligibility criteria
Applicants for a pet shop licence must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.
A fee, determined by South Tyneside Council, will be payable on application.
Evaluation process
Councils must have regard to the following when considering an application for a pet shop licence:
- That animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regards to temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
- Adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
- That any mammalian animals will not be sold too young
- That steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
- That adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place
Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.
Will tacit consent apply if I haven't heard back from you?
No. If you would like to check on the progress of your application, please contact the licensing team on 0191 424 7695 or email licensing@southtyneside.gov.uk
How do I appeal if my application isn't approved?
Please contact South Tyneside Council in the first instance.
You can also appeal to the Magistrates court. A court may give directions on the issue of a licence.
How do I appeal against the conditions of my licence?
Please contact South Tyneside Council in the first instance.
You can also appeal to the local Magistrates court. A court may give directions on the issue of a condition.
Consumer complaints
If you have a complaint, we advise that you contact the trader, preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery).
If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice.
From outside the UK, contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
