🍻 Premises Licence: Complete Guide & Application Support

What is a Premises Licence?

A Premises Licence is a legal authorisation from your local council that allows a venue to conduct licensable activities under the Licensing Act 2003.

🏠 It applies to all types of spaces — from bars and restaurants to open fields, boats, residential event spaces, and more.


✅ Licensable Activities

1️⃣ Sale of Alcohol by Retail
2️⃣ Supply of Alcohol by a Club
3️⃣ Provision of Regulated Entertainment (live music, DJs, films, etc.)
4️⃣ Late-Night Refreshment (hot food/drinks between 11pm–5am)

If alcohol is sold, a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) must be named.


📋 What’s Needed for a Licence Application?

To apply, you’ll need to submit:

  • ✅ Application form

  • 📝 Operating Schedule

  • 👤 DPS Consent Form (if alcohol is sold)

  • 🗺️ Premises Plan (in government format)

  • 🛂 Right to Work evidence

  • 💷 Application fee (based on rateable value)


📘 What Is an Operating Schedule?

This outlines how your venue will operate and includes:

  • 🎭 Activities to be licensed

  • ⏰ Hours for each activity

  • 🚪 Opening hours

  • 👤 DPS details

  • 🍻 Alcohol consumption areas (on/off premises)

  • ✅ Steps to uphold the 4 Licensing Objectives:

    • 🚔 Prevention of crime and disorder

    • 🚑 Public safety

    • 🔇 Prevention of public nuisance

    • 🧒 Protection of children from harm


💰 Licence Fees

Band Rateable Value Fee Annual Charge
A £0–£4,300 £100 £70
B £4,301–£33,000 £190 £180
C £33,001–£87,000 £315 £295
D £87,001–£125,000 £450 £320
E £125,001+ £635 £350

🍷 Multipliers for Alcohol-Led Venues (D & E only):

  • Band D → £900 | Annual: £640

  • Band E → £1,905 | Annual: £1,050


📢 Advertising Requirements

You must:

  • 🪧 Display a blue A4 site notice (font size 16+) at the venue for 28 days

  • 🗞️ Publish a notice in a local newspaper within 10 working days of applying

⚠️ Failure to advertise correctly may result in application delays or rejection.


🕒 What Happens After You Apply?

  • 📆 A 28-day consultation period begins the day after your application is received.

  • Authorities and locals can submit support or objections.

  • If no objections, licence is automatically granted.

  • If objections arise, a hearing will be held to:

    • ✅ Approve

    • ✅ Approve with conditions

    • ❌ Refuse


🧑 Who Can Apply?

  • ✅ Individuals (18+ with right to work in the UK)

  • ✅ Limited companies

  • ✅ Sole traders/partnerships

  • ✅ Charities or trusts

  • ✅ Recognised clubs


💼 Why Use a Licensing Consultant?

DIY is possible, but common pitfalls include:

❌ Incorrect plans
❌ Poor operating schedules
❌ Advertising errors
❌ Ignoring local policy zones

✅ Our Expert Service – From £750+VAT

We offer end-to-end support across England & Wales:

🔍 Risk assessment
📋 Full application & schedule drafting
🪧 Notice design & placement
🤝 Liaison with authorities
🛡️ Objection handling

“A strong application backed by experienced negotiation can make all the difference.”

❌ Excludes: Council fees, newspaper ad costs, premises plans (if not provided)


🧭 Step-by-Step: Our Application Process

1️⃣ Initial Consultation
Quick form: Licence holder, DPS, hours, activities, key details

2️⃣ Application Drafting
Tailored to your area’s local policy, zones & requirements

3️⃣ Submission
We submit on your behalf to trigger the consultation period

4️⃣ Advertising
We handle public and press notices, ensuring legal compliance

5️⃣ Consultation Period Support
We monitor feedback, respond to objections, and mediate


📬 Ready to Get Started?

📧 Complete the form below
📞 Call: 0800 433 7913
We’ll guide you from start to finish.

What Does a Premises Licence Allow?

A Premises Licence allows you to carry out one or more of the following licensable activities:

Your licence will specify the activities you are permitted to offer, along with the times and conditions you must follow.

What's Needed for a Premises Licence Application?

You will need to provide:

  • A completed application form
  • A detailed operating schedule
  • A plan of the premises
  • Consent from the premises owner (if you don't own it)
  • The relevant application fee
  • Supporting documents (e.g. DPS details, floor plans)

You handle every detail to ensure your application is accurate, complete and compliant.

The Operating Schedule

Your operating schedule must include:

Main Image
  • The times you want to carry out licensable activities
  • A description of the activities
  • Steps you will take to promote the licensing objectives (prevention of crime, public safety, public nuisance, protection of children)
  • Any additional information to support your application

A strong operating schedule is key to a successful application.

The Premises Licence Application Process

1

Initial Consultation

We assess your needs and advise on the best licence for your business.

2

Application Preparation

We prepare your application and operating schedule for you to sign off before submission.

3

Submission to Council

We submit your application to the local council on your behalf.

4

Public Notice & Consultation

The council advertises your application and a consultation period begins.

5

Decision

The council will either grant your licence or request changes.

Let Us Handle the Paperwork, So You Can Focus on Your Business

Our experts make the licensing process simple, stress-free and tailored to your needs.

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