North Devon Council is reminding all dog breeders to ensure that they are operating with a licence, and complying with its conditions, after serving its first Fixed Penalty Notice to a licensed dog breeding establishment. The notice for £5,000 was issued on 7 January 2026 and involved a significant condition breach under the associated Regulations. The premises subject of the notice is no longer trading.

The Animals (Penalty Notices) Act 2022 allows local authorities to issue fines of up to £5,000 for certain animal welfare and animal health offences, including condition breaches. Penalty notices can also be used to tackle unlicensed activities and poor welfare standards in home boarding establishments, kennels, riding establishments, catteries, pet shops, and exhibiting animals. Serious animal welfare offences are more likely to result in prosecution.

Amongst other criteria, dog breeders require a licence if they earn £1,000 or more from the activity over 12 months. The legislation is designed to ensure that anyone carrying out an activity requiring a licence meets strict welfare standards.

If there is any doubt whether a licence is required, residents are advised to contact the Licensing Team, who work with businesses and individuals to ensure they are correctly licensed. Those refusing to engage and apply for a licence may be investigated and could face a significant fine or prosecution. The council wishes to reassure the public that Fixed Penalty Notices are not a revenue-raising measure - only costs can be recovered, with any remaining funds paid into the Government’s Consolidated Fund.

Chair of the council’s Licensing and Community Safety Committee, Councillor Louisa York said: “These new powers allow us to take proportionate action where significant breaches occur, while continuing to support responsible, licensed businesses. Our priority is always animal welfare, and we encourage residents to use licensed animal establishments which are subject to inspection and oversight.”

North Devon Council is advising anyone looking to buy a puppy or kitten, or use a home boarder, dog daycare, or other animal-related services, to check that the business is licensed. Licensed businesses can be found on the council’s public register.