Horsebox Owners Warned

Horsebox owners have been warned by the Vehicle & Operator Services Agency (VOSA), that that they risk having their horsebox impounded and may receive a fine or prosecution.

As bizarre as it sounds, if you own a horsebox over 3.5 tonnes and you happen to be successful at any equestrian event where you may collect prize money as part of your spoils, then you must have a Licence to Operate, regardless of how much your winnings are for.

The principle behind the warning is that any financial gains (your winning) may be considered by VOSA as "hire and reward". In which case, this requires you to have a special Operators Licence. If you are not in possession of an Operators Licence, you could face prosecution, in the worst case scenario.

In addition, if you were to offer a friend and their horse a lift in your horsebox, or simply help move a horse and receive "petrol money", you may also need to have a Licence to Operate. This is because, VOSA may perceive this to be a "hire" transaction.

VOSA has warned the horsebox owners across the UK that it will bring a case against anyone considered to be breaking these laws. Having said that, it will be for the courts to determine if you have acted in a way that requires a Licence to Operate.

...some sense at last!

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