How many acres of land do you need for a horse?

If you are attempting to figure the carrying capacity of land for a horse, then a good rule of thumb is 1-1/2 to 2 acres of open intensely managed land per horse. Two acres, if managed properly, should provide adequate forage in the form of pasture and/or hay ground.

What do I need to run my own livery yard?

A recognised qualification, such as the British Horse Society stable manager’s certificate, is an advantage. Unless you keep your horse at home, and are simply looking for a single livery to keep him company, your first need is to find the right premises.

What kind of relationship does a livery yard have?

In particular many livery yards comprise a mixture of employer/employee and landlord relationships, which may be even more complex if run by family members. Many people keeping their horses at such premises undertake the full range of daily care themselves.

Can a horse be left in a livery yard?

An owner does not abdicate responsibility by leaving their horse in the care of a livery yard; the responsibility is ongoing. By the same token, however, it is the duty of a livery yard owner to ensure the safety and security of its horses and those who use their yards, with serious legal implications for failing to do so.

Where can I find health and safety regulations for livery yards?

Health and safety standards for livery yards are set out by the Chartered Institute for Environmental Health ( CIEH ). Download ‘Health and safety in horse riding establishments and livery yards’ from the CIEH website (PDF, 2.6MB) You can make a planning application online.

How are horses cared for in a livery yard?

At a livery yard, horses are housed and cared for in return for payment but do not belong to the owner of the yard. Health and safety standards for livery yards are set out by the Chartered Institute for Environmental Health ( CIEH ).

Do you have to have an agreement with a livery yard?

Whatever the level of livery, both yard and horse owners are strongly advised to enter into an agreement with each other before the horse arrives at the yard. This ensures that both parties are aware of their obligations.

Can you make a profit from running a livery yard?

A decent number of horses and a well run yard can make enough money to give you a salary even after rent, but it is not a route to riches. Remember that every livery space you occupy with your own horses is one less that can be earning you a living. My suggestion is to do the maths properly and calculate your costs and income.