If you run a business involving animals, you may need a licence. This page answers common questions about licensing, inspections, star ratings and appeals.
After an inspection, either before a licence is granted or renewed, after a complaint, or if a reinspection is requested.
Yes, after their first inspection.
Only one rating is given, based on the lowest standard met across all activities.
Yes. Ratings are shown on the licence and listed on the council’s website.
Yes. Appeals must be made in writing (email or post) within 21 days of receiving the licence.
Yes, informal discussions are encouraged before submitting a formal appeal.
A senior officer not involved in the original inspection.
The council must respond within 21 days of receiving the appeal.
The business can challenge the decision by means of a judicial review.
Yes, if improvements have been made. This may result in a higher, lower, or unchanged rating.
Yes, reinspections are charged at full cost recovery.
Within 3 months of the request.
There’s no limit, but each one has a fee.
In writing, with details of improvements and supporting evidence.
Yes, if there’s not enough evidence. The council must explain why and what’s needed for future requests.
Yes. Ratings can’t be changed based on documents alone.
It depends. It may be scheduled or unannounced based on the issue.
Yes. The rating may go up, down, or stay the same.
Yes. A licence can be suspended, varied, or revoked if:
No. Norwich Council opposes giving animals as prizes under its Animal Charter.
