Defra have published new Standards of Modern Zoo Practice for Great Britain (‘the Standards’). This document has been produced with the Scottish and Welsh Government, which undertake similar activities in Scotland and Wales.
The Standards will come into effect on 24 May 2027. Defra are publishing the Standards now to allow licensed zoos time to adapt to any new requirements as well as allow the zoo inspectorate to familiarise themselves with the new requirements. There are also, within the Standards, some additional, longer transitional times for some species-specific changes that you will wish to note.
The Standards will replace the Secretary of State’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (2012) in England and Scotland, and the National Assembly of Wales’ Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (2006) in Wales. The current Standards will remain in effect until 23 May 2027.
