Keeping a Primate Licence
If you already own or want to keep a primate in Newham then from the 6th April 2026 you must have a licence under The Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024 which is issued by The London Borough of Newham.
Please Provide a link to the legislation as on other pages
Animals for which you need a licence are all non-human primates which include:
· Squirrel monkeys
· Marmosets
· Tamarinds
You must have a licence before you obtain a primate and for any primates you already own. If you are not sure whether you need a licence, are interested in obtaining a primate or wish to apply for a licence please email us at animal.welfare@newham.gov.uk or telephone on 0203 373 2777 for further information and an application form
Licence conditions
Each licence will have conditions, which will vary depending on the type of animal but all primates must be kept in appropriate social groups. Licence conditions will include
· Who owns your premises, as please note some housing providers do not allow wild animals/primates in their housing stock.
· Enclosure size & requirements
· Nutrition and feeding
· Environmental requirements
· Behaviour
· Handling & Transportation
· Breeding
Non-human Primates: our inspections
The London Borough of Newham is the licensing authority for Newham. The first time you apply for a licence you will need an inspection by a ‘suitable person’ as defined by the regulations and a council licensing inspector. They will ensure you comply with all the conditions under the legislation and may also inspect your premises at any time after we issue you a licence as part of the licence conditions.
Licence Renewal
Once you obtain a licence, we will write to you to tell you when you need to renew it
