Animal activity licence renewal explained
Your animal activity licence lasts one, two or three years, and then you renew. Renewal is not just a fee, the council reassesses you, so it pays to be ready. Here is what to expect.
When to renew
Apply to renew before your current licence expires, ideally several weeks ahead, because the council needs to inspect again. If you let it lapse you may have to stop operating until a new licence is granted.
Do you need the documents again?
Yes. Renewal is assessed against the same conditions as a new application, so your written procedures, records and plans must be current and in place. Councils expect your documentation to reflect how you actually operate now, not a pack from years ago.
How star ratings affect renewal
Your rating and risk score shape how long your renewed licence lasts. A good compliance history can earn a higher rating and a longer licence than your first one, so keeping clean records between inspections pays off directly.
Make renewal painless
Keep your records up to date throughout the licence, and refresh your written pack before you reapply. PetApproved can produce an up-to-date pack for renewal in minutes, tailored to your activity and marked as a renewal application.
Frequently asked
Is renewal cheaper than a new application?
Many councils charge a slightly lower renewal fee than a new application, but it varies. Meeting the higher standards for a longer licence is what saves most over time.
Will I be inspected again at renewal?
Yes, renewal normally involves a fresh inspection against the current conditions.
Can my star rating go down?
Yes, if standards or compliance have slipped. Equally it can go up with a good track record.