To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from Falkirk Council. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.

Applicants for a pet shop licence must not be disqualified from keeping a pet shop.

A police officer or officer of the local authority may make a complaint to the local court if they feel that animals have been subject to cruelty.

• The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 - Guidance for Pet Sellers
• Guidance for pet sellers

Falkirk Council must have regard to the following when considering an application for a pet shop licence.

• Animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regard 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.
• Any mammalian animals will not be sold too young.
• Steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals.
• Adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place.
• Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.

No. It is in the public interest that Falkirk Council must process your application before it can be granted.

If you have not heard from us within 28 days, please contact us.

To apply, change or renew a pet shop licence you can complete the form below and send it to Falkirk Council by email:

Please contact us in the first instance.

Where a licence is granted, it will remain in force for the period stated on the licence. These are typically for 1 year although licences may be granted for up to 3 years, depending on the risk assessment carried out by the licensing authority, and must be renewed before the expiry date if the licensed breeding activity is to continue.

• Pet Industry Federation (PIF)