In England, you need an Animal Activity Licence (AAL) from your local council if you look after dogs for money for more than four hours in any 24-hour period. Without one, you are breaking the law.
What is an Animal Activity Licence?
The Animal Activity Licence replaced the old pet shop and boarding licences when the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 came into force. It covers dog daycare, home boarding, dog breeding, selling animals, and cat boarding under one framework.
If you are being paid — even informally — to look after someone else's dog during the day, you need one.
Does it apply to home-based daycare too?
Yes. The licence requirement covers all commercial dog daycare, whether you run a dedicated premises, a converted barn, or operate from your home. If dogs are paying to be there, you need the licence.
What about Scotland and Wales?
- Scotland: Covered under the Animal Boarding Establishments (Scotland) Act 1971, administered by local councils.
- Wales: The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations 2021 introduced a similar system to England's, with star ratings and annual renewals.
How do you apply for an Animal Activity Licence in England?
- Contact your local council's licensing or animal welfare team
- Complete their application form (most are available online)
- Pay the application fee — typically £150–£400 for a new licence, varying by council
- Undergo a premises inspection (they will come to you)
- If you pass, you receive a licence rating of 1–5 stars
The inspection usually happens within 10–12 weeks of application, though some councils are slower. Do not start operating commercially before your licence is granted.
How long does the licence last?
- 1–2 stars: annual renewal only
- 3–4 stars: up to 2-year renewal
- 5 stars: up to 3-year renewal
Higher star ratings mean less frequent inspections — which is why it's worth working towards them from the start.
What happens if you operate without a licence?
It is a criminal offence under the 2018 Regulations. You can be fined up to £5,000, prohibited from keeping animals, and have any future licence application refused. Trading Standards and council animal welfare officers do investigate complaints.