Owners of pet monkeys, lemurs, chimpanzees and other primates across Wychavon are being urged to get licensed before new rules come into force.
From 6 April, 2026, anyone in England who owns a primate without a licence will be committing a criminal offence, which can include up to 6 months in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. A Dangerous Wild Animal Licence may also be needed if primate owners don’t already have one in place.
The new licensing requirements are being introduced as part of the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024, which aim to significantly boost welfare standards for primates kept as pets.
To get a licence, owners will have to prove they are meeting zoo-level welfare standards such as building the right size enclosure for them, providing the right diet and proving the primate is free from pain, injury and suffering. Licences will last three years, with inspections carried out by a licensing officer along with a specialist vet or zookeeper.
The Government estimates up to 5,000 primates may currently be kept as pets in homes across England.
Worcestershire Regulatory Services will be carrying out the inspections on behalf of Wychavon. The shared public service is funded by the six district councils in Worcestershire and provides licensing functions across the county.
Cllr Rick Deller, Wychavon’s Executive Board Member for Housing, regulatory and customer services, said: “These new licensing rules will set very high standards for people to meet if they want to own a primate as a pet. These animals have complex needs and it’s right to ensure we’re doing everything we can to safeguard their welfare.
“If you own a primate, please apply for a licence as soon as possible so our licensing officers can advise if you meet the new requirements and give you time to take action before the new law comes into force.”
Information on the new licensing process and the application form is available on the Primate Keepers Licences page on the Worcestershire Regulatory Services website.
Anyone who knows of someone who owns a primate in the Worcestershire area can contact Worcestershire Regulatory Services on 01905 822799 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to raise awareness.
