A SOMERSET reindeer attraction fears it could close after it emerged it required a zoo licence to show the animals for more than six days a year.

Visitors to the Somerset Reindeer Ranch, at Chilthorne Domer, near Yeovil, have been able to see reindeer for more than a decade, alongside the likes of cattle and pigs.

However, after a complaint to Somerset Council – which is in charge of issuing licences for premises such as the reindeer farm – officers wrote to the attraction to inform them of the rules.

Under the law, premises hosting species classified as ‘wild animals’ under the Zoo Licensing Act for more than six days each year, are required to obtain a zoo licence.

However, the family-run Somerset attraction said it has “never operated without the appropriate licensing”, and that Somerset Council had “been fully aware of our activities” for the past 12 years.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said no rules had changed – and that venues showing reindeer for more than six days a year require a zoo licence, which is the responsibility of Somerset Council.

The confusion around guidance over whether reindeer fall into the zoo licensing category – and the complaint to the council – have now led to fears the ranch could close, as the costs involved in obtaining and complying with a zoo licence would be too great for it to bear.

“Zoo Licensing is a complex, multi-layered regime involving vast operational and structural obligations, far beyond the scope and scale of small rural enterprises,” the ranch said. “It is not simply a matter of paying a fee.”

They said requirements typically include a perimeter security fence comparable to large zoos, staff with firearms capabilities, and secure on-site storage meeting strict police requirements.

“Obtaining such a licence as a private rural business is notoriously difficult and expensive,” the ranch went on.

“These requirements exist even though reindeer are not dangerous wild animals and are already exempt under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act.”

The Somerset Reindeer Ranch has been operating for over a decade

The ranch said domestic reindeer should be removed from the list of ‘wild animals’ under the Zoo Licensing Act.
Somerset Council said it had “every sympathy” with the ranch and that it was working with them to “offer advice and guidance” – and was not taking steps to close the ranch down as the matter was being resolved.

“Somerset Council did not classify reindeer as wild animals – this classification is Defra’s as part of the Zoo Licensing Act,” a spokesperson said.

“The issue we’re dealing with relates to how many days the site is open to the public.

“Earlier this year, we received a complaint that the Ranch was now hosting public events on more than six days a year. Under current legislation, because of the classification of some animals on site, the ranch will need a zoo licence.

“After reviewing the law and guidance, we confirmed this requirement and explained the options to the Ranch: Apply for a zoo licence, or reduce public opening days to six or fewer, which would remove the need for a licence.

“In October, our officers spoke with the owners and agreed that, in line with our enforcement policy, we would not take formal enforcement action while they worked towards compliance.

“This approach reflects the complexity of the licensing process and the potential impact immediate enforcement could have on animal welfare which we recognise is a key concern.

“We also made clear that this position does not prevent the ranch from taking bookings for planned events while the licence application is being considered.

“We understand that obtaining a zoo licence can take time, and we’ve been mindful of the practicalities throughout. Our dialogue with the ranch is ongoing, and we’ll continue to provide support wherever possible.”

They said the cost of a zoo licence is £2,747, and if granted, would be valid for four years, though it acknowledged there were “likely to be other associated costs”.

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Meanwhile, MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Glastonbury and Somerton) has also taken up the issue on behalf of the ranch.

She has tabled a Bill that would see domestic reindeer classified as domestic animals – and not require a zoo licence to be shown.

“It’s just good sense to exempt reindeer from this overly stringent zoo licensing requirement,” the MP said.

“They’re domesticated animals, incredibly safe to be around, and already exempted in other legislation, as they’re quite clearly not dangerous.

“Reindeer farms bring much joy to local communities and provide enriching learning, training and employment opportunities.

“Our local Reindeer Ranch in Somerset is a great example, operating safely with a five-star animal welfare rating for 14 years, and being much loved locally.

“It’s nonsensical, that because of this slightly outdated bill’s phrasing, local businesses might be forced to close, or be subject to very high costs to comply. “And it would be devastating to lose these wonderful rural businesses.

“I am determined to fight to make sure that doesn’t happen. I hope the Government sees sense and agrees to the changes.”

The Bill is set for a second reading in the Commons on January 16 next year, with the ranch allowed to operate throughout this Christmas season as conversations continue.

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