- Eligibility criteria
- What the law says
- Application process
- How long will it take you to process my application?
- How to apply
- Can I appeal if my application is refused?
- Complaints about horse riding establishments
To run a riding establishment (where horses or ponies are hired out for riding or used for riding instruction) you need a licence from the local authority.
Eligibility criteria
You must be over the age of 18 to apply for this licence.
You may not apply for a riding establishment licence if you have ever been disqualified from any of the following:
- From keeping a riding establishment
- From keeping a pet shop under the Pet Animals Act 1951
- From having custody of animals under the Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act 1954
- From keeping boarding establishments for animals under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963
- Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 from keeping or owning animals, being able to influence how animals are kept, dealing in animals or transporting or being involved in the transporting of animals
- From owning, keeping, dealing in or transporting animals under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006
What the law says
Application process
Before deciding an application we must consider a report from a veterinary surgeon or practitioner detailing whether the premises are suitable for a riding establishment and detailing the conditions of the premises and any horses.
We will also take into account whether the applicant is suitable and qualified to hold a licence. We must also be satisfied that there will be compliance with the licence conditions.
How long will it take you to process my application?
We aim to process your application within 28 days of receiving it. As it is in the public interest that we process your application before it can be granted, please contact us if you have not heard from us by the end of this period. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details within.
How to apply
- Apply for a licence to operate a riding establishment. Application forms and guidance notes are available from the Licensing Team
- Tell us about a change to your existing riding establishment licence
Fees
- Annual licence (new) cost: £310
- Annual licence (renewal) cost: £179
Can I appeal if my application is refused?
Please contact us first. Any applicant who is refused a licence or wants to object to a condition on the licence can appeal to their local magistrates’ court within 21 days of receiving notice of the decision.
Complaints about horse riding establishments
If you wish to complain that a trader is causing a nuisance such as noise, or if you believe that there has been a breach of licence conditions, please contact us. If you are in the UK, you can also contact Consumer Direct who will give you advice. From outside the UK please contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
- Contact: Licensing Service
- Telephone: 0118 974 6766
