If you are planning to sell alcohol, provide late-night refreshments, or offer regulated entertainment at a venue in England or Wales, you will need to apply for a premises licence. It sounds like a lot of paperwork, and honestly, it can be but once you understand the process, it becomes much more manageable. This guide walks you through exactly what is involved, so you can move forward with confidence.
Who Can Apply for a Premises Licence?
Any person or business with a legal interest in the premises can submit a Premises Licence Application. This includes individuals, companies, partnerships, and even local authorities. You do not need to be the property owner, but you must be able to demonstrate a legitimate connection to the venue such as being the leaseholder or operator.
Step-by-Step: How the Premises Licence Application Works
Step 1 Prepare Your Application Pack
Your application must be submitted to the relevant local licensing authority usually the council for the area where the premises is located. You will need to complete the standard application form, which is available on the government website or through your local council. Along with the form, you must include an operating schedule setting out the activities you plan to carry out, the hours you intend to operate, and the steps you will take to promote the four licensing objectives.
Step 2 Submit to the Licensing Authority and Responsible Authorities
On the same day you submit your application to the council, you are also required to send a copy to each of the responsible authorities. These include the police, fire authority, environmental health, and planning department, among others. Missing this step is a common mistake and can cause delays or rejection.
Step 3 Display the Public Notice
You must display a blue notice at the premises for a period of 28 consecutive days from the date of application. This notice must be clearly visible to the public and meet specific size and wording requirements under the Licensing Act. You will also need to advertise the Premises Licence Application in a local newspaper within 10 working days of submitting it.
Step 4 Wait for the Consultation Period to Close
The 28-day consultation window gives responsible authorities and members of the public the opportunity to make representations either in support of or against the application. If no objections are received, your licence will be granted automatically. If representations are made, the licensing authority will hold a hearing to consider them before making a decision.
Do You Also Need a Personal Licence?
If your premises licence covers the sale or supply of alcohol, you will need to name a designated premises supervisor who holds a personal licence. This is the individual responsible for the day-to-day alcohol sales at the venue. If that person is you or if you plan to authorise alcohol sales yourself you will need to obtain a personal licence first. Taking a personal licence course online is one of the most convenient ways to gain the Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) qualification, which is required as part of the personal licence application process.
