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Step 1
Apply for an Association of Zoos and Aquariums, or AZA, membership and become AZA accredited. This process is a prerequisite for obtaining insurance. The AZA Accreditation Commission must officially recognize and approve your zoo facility. Insurers usually require that a business is AZA certified before issuing liability insurance.
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Step 2
Fill out an AZA questionnaire detailing your policies and procedures, programs and past records. If you can document that your business is responsible and organized, you'll receive AZA certification.
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Step 3
Welcome a team of qualified AZA inspectors to evaluate your facility. This team observes your operation for week. It includes animal experts and veterinarians who interview employees, double-check records and evaluate the facility. They then write observation reports based on their findings and animal welfare determinations.
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Step 4
Make sure your facility has 24-hour security, as this is mandatory for most insurance policy issuers.
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Step 5
Adhere to USDA licensing requirements. These requirements include hiring animal care providers with the adequate skills and training to maintain the safety and well-being of the animals they curate. You must also be familiar with the Animal Welfare Act.
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Step 6
Request and submit an application to an insurance company that has established prerequisites in place. This will lessen the time it takes to officially acquire insurance.
