1. The registration for the performance of animals is controlled under the Performing Animals Regulation Act 1925.
2. No person should engage in the performance of animals without having carried out a risk assessment by a competent person.
3. Sound advice should be obtained from the following:
- trained animal handlers
- veterinarians
- zoos
- university departments
4. It is the duty of the applicant to ensure that staff are given prior warning if they are to work with animals in case of phobias or allergies.
5. Information should be made available to every person concerned regarding controls such as feeding, avoiding disturbance, what to do in an emergency and the health risks particularly to expectant mothers caused by animal infections.
6. Every person who wishes to use animals to perform must first register with the local council and will have to pay a fee for this service.
7. Any person that is not required to manage the animals should be kept well clear of the performing area and the animals.
8. It is important that the length of time animals spend performing should be kept to a minimum.
9. Any equipment used e.g. hay or straw, should be treated and fireproofed.
10. First aid should always be on hand.
Offences and Penalties
11. The following offences apply to any person who:
a) not being registered exhibits or trains any performing animals
b) being registered trains or exhibits any animal that is not registered or in a manner that has not been registered
c) obstructs or delays a local authority officer or a police officer in the execution of his duties under the Act as regards entry and inspection
d) conceals any animal with a view to avoiding such inspection or
e) fails to produce a registration certificate when required to do so
f) applies to be registered under this Act when prohibited from being registered
12. The maximum penalty for any offence under the Act is a fine of £1,000.
Further information
13. Copies of the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925 and other legislation mentioned in this information sheet can be purchased from Her Majesty's stationery office.
14. A copy of the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925 can be inspected at our offices at 9-10 Bath Street, Bath, where you may also obtain an application form and further help or advice.
Fees
The fee for a Performning Animals Registration for the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2013 inclusive is £103.
Application Forms
For an application form please contact the Council’s Licensing Section on 01225 477531or email licensing@bathnes.gov.uk.