Standard Tier

Standard tier operators meet all minimum welfare requirements set out in the AAL specific conditions for the activities they hold a licence for. This includes minimum kennel sizes, ventilation, temperature controls, vaccination policies, exercise routines, and record-keeping.

The key distinction from Higher Standard is the level of staffing, exercise provision, and enrichment. Standard tier operators provide adequate, compliant care — not exceptional care.

A Standard tier operator with no compliance history is typically awarded between 1 and 3 stars depending on the council’s risk assessment. To go higher, the operator must opt into Higher Standard and demonstrate the additional provisions.