Performing animals

Registration application

is an offence for anyone to train or exhibit a performing animal unless they are registered to do so under the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925. The Act is designed to cover the use of animals in stage performances, at circuses, as part of exhibitions etc.

If you exhibit, use or train performing animals in Scotland you must be registered with the local council.  Applications must contain details about the animals and the performances they are to take part in.

Fee

Applications may be subject to a fee. For further information please contact Customer Services.

Eligibility Criteria

No provision in legislation

Regulation Summary

A summary of the regulation relating to this licence [opens in anew window]

Apply to register for the exhibition or training of performing animals

Application Evaluation Process

No provision in legislation

There are two ways of applying:

Should your wish to obtain further information, please Customer Services.

Apply to change a performing animals registration

Licence summary

If you wish to exhibit, use, or train performing animals other than those specified on your current licence you must register those changes with the local authority

There are two ways of applying:

Should your wish to obtain further information, please email Customer Services.

Will Tacit Consent Apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact us. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes Service or use the contact details below. 

Application Redress 

Failed Application Redress

Please contact Environmental Health in the first instance.

Licence Holder Redress

Please contact Environmental Health in the first instance.

Other Redress

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

Consumer Complaint

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Citizens Advice Bureau will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Trade Associations

The International Marine Animal Trainers' Association [opens in a new window]