Applying for a zoo licence
Service description
If you wish to run a zoo, you will need authorisation from the nature conservation authority. In addition to the establishment and operation of a zoo, any expansion or significant alterations are also subject to authorisation. The nature conservation authority grants authorisation, upon application, for specific facilities and specific operators, and sets a maximum number of animals for each individual species.
Under the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG), zoos are establishments in which wild animals are kept for at least seven days a year for the purpose of displaying them.
Procedure
Please submit your application for a zoo licence in writing, in any format, to the relevant authority. The relevant authority will inform you of the next steps in the procedure.
Who should I contact?
the local nature conservation authority at the district office; in independent towns, at the town council
Prerequisites
- The construction, extension, operation or substantial alteration of a facility for the keeping of wild animals for the purpose of exhibition
- long-term accommodation for at least 7 days
The following are not considered to be zoos:
- Circuses
- Pet shops
- An enclosure for keeping no more than five native species of hoofed game
- Establishments where no more than 20 animals of other wild species are kept
Which documents are required?
Depending on the type of zoo, different documents are required. Further information on this can be obtained from the relevant authority.
What fees are incurred?
Procedural fee (based on the amount of work involved)
What deadlines do I have to observe?
Application/approval: prior to commencing the activities described
Processing time
depending on the size and facilities of the establishment to be authorised
Legal basis
Section 42 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG) [DE] [https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bnatschg_2009/__42.html]Applications / Forms
Informal application letter accepted: yes