Primate owners licence – East Riding of Yorkshire Council

The new legal requirement, introduced under the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) England Regulations, applies to all primate keepers in England (except zoos) and aims to ensure the animals’ welfare and safety.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is urging residents who own primates – including monkeys and lemurs – to contact its licensing team to make sure they’re complying with the scheme.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Lyn Healing, cabinet member for communities and public protection at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “These regulations are vital for animal welfare, and we urge any residents in the East Riding who own primates to get in touch with the licensing team as soon as possible.

“Together we can safeguard animal wellbeing across our region.”

The regulations require keepers to provide a suitable environment and diet for their primates, allow them to exhibit natural behaviours, and keep them in safe enclosures that protect them from harm.

Anyone found keeping a primate without a licence after Monday, April 6, will be committing an offence; illegal monkey owners could be slapped with an unlimited fine or even face jail time under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Depending on the species and activities of the primate, a dangerous wild animals licence may also be required.

Anyone with information about primates being kept in the East Riding can contact the licensing team at licensing@eastriding.gov.uk.