What is a premises licence?

What is a premises licence and who needs one?

A premises licence is a specific sort of authorisation that certain businesses require to trade legally. It ensures that they comply with legislation prescribed under the Licensing Act of 2003, which abolished 'standard' drinking hours.

Businesses that sell alcoholic drinks, offer entertainment or provide hot food or drink, i.e. a pub or club, between the hours of 11pm and 5am must obtain a licence.

This includes alcohol wholesalers. Additionally, charities, health services and educational establishments may also apply, should the need arise. 

A licence does not expire, but should the premises or its operations change, a variation licence must be requested.

Under the terms of the licence, the premises commits to following particular steps towards maintaining public order, preventing crime, protecting children and promoting safety. It also governs "irresponsible" promotions, such as cheap alcohol offers.

To apply for a licence, a form must be completed and sent to the correct licencing agency, usually the local council. Along with the form, applicants must send an operating schedule, a plan of the premises for which the licence is sought and a fee. If the premises wishes to sell alcohol, then consent 'of the proposed designated premises supervisor' (DPS) must be included.

The operating schedule details the 'licenseable' activities that will take place within the premises, trading hours, the duration of the licence, who the DPS is and where alcohol will be supplied. It must also include a comprehensive plan regarding how the licensees hope to meet the licensing objectives, such as security measures or limiting noise pollution.

The application process is very detailed and while instructions do exist on the internet, it might be easier to gain some legal advice and assistance from a local solicitor, who can help you complete the application form, etc.

The point of the act was to change the existing drinking culture that led to people trying to drink as much as they could before closing time and also to remove the huge swaths of people on Britain's streets at 'chucking out time'. The Act was designed to enable a more 'diverse evening economy'.

Share |