Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Classify reindeer as domesticated farm animals and end Zoo Licensing requirement

Closed 2,992 signatures

What the petition asks

Reclassify reindeer as domesticated farm animals and remove the requirement for keepers to meet zoo-level geological enclosure standards. Establish fair, practical welfare regulations suited to reindeer kept by trained, responsible handlers.
Reindeer have been safely kept by trained handlers for decades, yet we feel outdated licensing rules impose unnecessary zoo-grade conditions not suited to farmed reindeer. We believe reclassification protects welfare, supports small businesses, and ensures practical, evidence-based regulation.

Timeline

16 Jan 2026 Petition opened for signatures
16 Jul 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 2,992
Status Closed
Department Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened 16 Jan 2026
Closed 16 Jul 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 30 Jul 2026.