How to Apply for a Premises Licence in England and Wales
Step-by-step guide to applying for a premises licence under the Licensing Act 2003: operating schedule, plans, DPS, advertisement, and the consultation process.
A premises licence is the document under the Licensing Act 2003 that authorises a UK venue to sell alcohol, host regulated entertainment, or supply late-night refreshment. Every venue carrying out one of these licensable activities needs one. Applications are made to the local licensing authority where the premises is located. The process takes a minimum of 28 days from advertisement to grant, longer if representations are received and a hearing is needed.
7 steps to complete
Decide what activities to apply for
List the licensable activities you need: sale by retail of alcohol, regulated entertainment (live and recorded music between 11pm and 8am, dance, indoor sport), late-night refreshment (hot food and drink between 11pm and 5am). Decide hours per activity per day. For nightclubs, applying for all four covers the full operating profile.
Identify your DPS
Every premises licence authorising alcohol sales must specify a Designated Premises Supervisor. The DPS must hold a personal licence. Confirm their personal licence details and that they consent to being named.
Prepare layout plans
Draw layout plans showing all licensable areas, escape routes, fire exits, the bar, the stage if any, and any external smoking or queuing areas. Plans are submitted with the application and become part of the licence.
Draft the operating schedule
The operating schedule explains how you will run the venue in a way that promotes the four licensing objectives. Cover door supervision (if any), capacity, sound monitoring, Challenge 25, drug and search policies, CCTV, dispersal, and incident logging. Whatever you offer here becomes a condition on the licence, so be specific but realistic.
Submit the application and pay the fee
Apply to the local licensing authority with the form, operating schedule, plans, DBS evidence for the DPS, and the application fee (which scales with the rateable value of the premises).
Advertise the application
Display a public notice at the premises and place an advert in a local newspaper within 10 working days. Advertisement triggers the 28-day consultation period during which responsible authorities and interested parties can make representations.
Respond to representations or attend a hearing
If no relevant representations are made the application is granted. If representations are received, the licensing committee holds a hearing where you (typically with a licensing solicitor) explain your operating schedule and respond to concerns. Most operators succeed by demonstrating proportionate, evidenced controls.
Tips for success
Common mistakes to avoid
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a premises licence?
Minimum 28 days from advertisement if no representations are received. With representations, expect 8 to 12 weeks including the hearing.
How much does a premises licence cost?
The application fee scales with the rateable value of the premises, ranging from a few hundred pounds to several thousand. Annual fees apply after grant.
Do I need a solicitor to apply?
Not legally, but most commercial applications use a licensing solicitor for the operating schedule and any hearing. Solicitors materially improve outcomes when representations are received.
What happens if my application is refused?
You have a right of appeal to the magistrates' court within 21 days. Appeals consider the application afresh.
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