Primates are wild animals with complex welfare and social needs. The primate licensing regime is designed to make sure primates are kept to appropriate welfare standards.
Keeping primates: when a licence is needed
You need a licence if you keep a primate in North Tyneside unless the primate is kept in:
- a licensed zoo, or
- a place licensed under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act.
A licence application can only be made by an individual aged 18 or over, and you must not be disqualified from keeping animals/primates under relevant legislation.
How to apply
To apply, you’ll need to:
-
Complete the Council application form
- Provide details of:
- the primate species and number of animals
- where they will be kept
- identification details (e.g., microchip information where applicable)
- Pay the application fee (see fees below)
How much will it cost?
The licence is issued subject to compliance with licence conditions and payment of the Council fee.
- Application fee: £164
- Licence fee: £416
- Specialist veterinary inspection: charged separately at actual cost (recharged to the applicant)
Inspection and determination
Before deciding an application, the Council must arrange for a suitable person to inspect the premises to check whether the licence conditions are likely to be met. This usually involves specialist veterinary input.
Following inspection, the Council will either:
- grant the licence (with conditions), or
- refuse the application.
How long will it take?
Applications can take longer than other animal licences due to the need to arrange specialist inspection. North Tyneside Council aim to determine within 24 weeks.
How long does a licence last?
Licences can be granted for up to 3 years
Licence conditions
Licences are issued with mandatory conditions that cover accommodation, diet, enrichment, social housing, veterinary care, hygiene, record keeping, transport and other welfare requirements. Inspectors will assess applications against these conditions.
Tacit consent
No - tacit consent will not apply. It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us using the contact details below.
Variation, renewal and surrender
Licence holders may be able to apply to:
- vary numbers/species kept
- change the licensed premises (within the same local authority area)
- renew a licence before expiry
- surrender a licence
Dangerous Wild Animals (DWA) licensing
DWA licensing remains separate and is primarily focused on public safety. Depending on species and circumstances, DWA requirements may still apply alongside primate welfare licensing.
Report concerns / intelligence
If you believe a primate is being kept in North Tyneside without the required licence (from 6 April 2026), contact the Council.
- Email: animal.licensing@northtyneside.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0191 643 6100