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Zoo Legislation and Standards in UK Zoos and Aquariums

England Scotland and Wales all zoos and aquariums have to be licensed under the Zoo Licensing Act, 1981. In 1999 the European Zoos Directive (EC Directive 1999/22/EC) on the Keeping of Wild Animals in Zoos) was published and came into force in April 2002. This sets conservation, education and animal welfare standards for all zoos and aquariums in EU countries. As a result of this Directive the Zoo Licensing Act was amended [(Amendment England and Wales) Regulations 2002]. Northern Ireland introduced legislation in 2003 [Zoo Licensing Regulations (NI) 2003]. In England and Wales the Act is regulated by Defra, in Scotland by the Scottish Executive and in Northern Ireland by the Department of the Environment.


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To operate zoos and aquariums have to have a licence, this means that they have to undergo regular inspection by Inspectors from the Secretary of States List. Inspectors follow the Secretary of States Standards of Modern Zoo Practice.

Full details of this legislation is given in Circular 02/2003 to the Zoo Licensing Act.

The Zoos Forum was formed in 1988 as an independent advisory body to government on zoo matters. The Forum was established as part of the Government’s proposals to modernise British zoos and ensure that captive wild animals are properly cared for into the next century. The Forum is composed of people with a broad range of expertise and experience in the world of animal welfare and conservation, from scientists and veterinary surgeons to educators and members of animal conservation institutions. The Forum has produced a Handbook with information to help zoos and aquariums achieve the highest standards.

The Association has consistently supported a strong legislative control of zoos and aquariums and was one of the bodies who lobbied for and supported the original 1981 Act. BIAZA believes that only through effective legislation can high standards of husbandry and welfare be consistently achieved in collections across the European Union.

The Association will continue to offer its expertise, advice and experience to the on-going debate and formulation of zoo and aquarium policies. Along with the vast majority of the British public the Association shares a vision of zoos and aquariums being centres of excellence, thus making a valuable contribution to the conservation of the natural world.