If you keep cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or more than 50 poultry then legally you must register with the Rural Payments Agency (RPA).
When you have registered, you will be issued with a Holding Number (also known as a CPH number), in the form of 34/123/1234. The number relates to County (C) / Parish (P) / Individual holding (H). You will need this number when completing movement records and movement documents, and in official correspondence with Defra.
Register with the Rural Payments Agency (RPA)
To register, contact the RPA by phoning 0845 603 7777, emailing customer.service.centre@rpa.gsi.gov.uk or writing to:
The Rural Payments Agency
Customer Service Centre
PO Box 1058
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE99 7YQ
Visit the Rural Payments Agency website.
Contact the South West Animal Health Office
You will also need to contact the South West Animal Health Office, who will issue you a Herd Mark or Flock Number (depending on the species of animals kept). There is no charge for these registrations.
Telephone 01392 266373, email ah.gloucester@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk, or write to:
Gloucester Animal Health office
Unit 1
Saw Mills End
Barnwood
Gloucester
GL4 3DE
Poultry
If you are keeping a flock of poultry of 50 or more, you must register with Defra's Poultry Register. Phone 0800 634 1112 or email poultryregister@defra.gsi.gov.uk.