The particularly pervasive myth to the effect that all animals generating a gross income in excess of £1000 per annum from the keeping or training of animals for use in live audiences or recorded productions and/or print media require a licence is incorrect. In fact the contrary is the case; if an animal earns an income below the annual HMRC trading income allowance (presently set at £1000) a license is not required for their activities. Conversely if the sum earned is above this amount, a licence may be required in the event the activities are carried on in the course of a business.
In order to determine if the activity is conducted in the course of a business, the local authority will consider:
(i) Whether it is conducted with a view to making a profit or making any commission / fee; and
(ii) HMRC’s nine Badges of Trade
It follows that an individual’s requirement for a licence will always be assessed on a case by case basis.  It is always a subjective test.
To learn more about the nine Badges of Trade and the Animal Activities Licence generally, please refer to the information on the Gov website.  Licence applications can be made through local authority.  Should you have any questions about this or are unclear on the legislation, please contact enquiries@theanimaltalent.agency.