National Awareness Campaign launched to help public and local authorities prepare for new primate licensing requirements

Designed to safeguard animal welfare and prevent primates from being kept in “unsuitable conditions”, the new requirements follow the Government’s decision to ban the keeping of primates as pets in environments that “fail to provide for their needs”, the IoL noted.

Under the new primate licensing law, anyone who keeps a non-human primate in England must have a licence from their local authority by 6 April 2026, unless they already hold:

• A Zoo Licence under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981
• An ASPA Licence under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.

The Primate Licensing Campaign, led by the IoL, provides information and practical resources for licensing authorities, enforcement teams, and members of the public.

The IoL said: “The campaign includes a media kit with visual assets, expert quotes, and a press release template, to help local authorities and other stakeholders run their own outreach and awareness initiatives.”

Paul Adams, CEO of the Institute of Licensing, commented: “The new primate licensing rules are a major step forward for animal welfare. Our campaign will help councils, animal welfare experts, and the public understand what’s changing and why, so that everyone is ready before the new rules come into force.”

David Etheridge, IoL trainer and animal licensing specialist, added: “Licensing professionals play a vital role in safeguarding animal welfare. Our training and resources will help ensure that primates are kept only in environments that meet the highest standards of care and oversight.”

To support the rollout, the IoL is also offering training courses on primate licensing, animal welfare standards, and enforcement best practices.  

The courses are designed for licensing officers, inspectors, and policy teams navigating the new framework.

Lottie Winson