🍻 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:
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✅ Application form
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📝 Operating Schedule
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👤 DPS Consent Form (if alcohol is sold)
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🗺️ Premises Plan (in government format)
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🛂 Right to Work evidence
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💷 Application fee (based on rateable value)
📘 What Is an Operating Schedule?
This outlines how your venue will operate and includes:
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🎭 Activities to be licensed
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⏰ Hours for each activity
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🚪 Opening hours
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👤 DPS details
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🍻 Alcohol consumption areas (on/off premises)
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✅ Steps to uphold the 4 Licensing Objectives:
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🚔 Prevention of crime and disorder
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🚑 Public safety
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🔇 Prevention of public nuisance
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🧒 Protection of children from harm
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💰 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):
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Band D → £900 | Annual: £640
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Band E → £1,905 | Annual: £1,050
📢 Advertising Requirements
You must:
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🪧 Display a blue A4 site notice (font size 16+) at the venue for 28 days
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🗞️ 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?
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📆 A 28-day consultation period begins the day after your application is received.
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Authorities and locals can submit support or objections.
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If no objections, licence is automatically granted.
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If objections arise, a hearing will be held to:
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✅ Approve
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✅ Approve with conditions
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❌ Refuse
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🧑 Who Can Apply?
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✅ Individuals (18+ with right to work in the UK)
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✅ Limited companies
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✅ Sole traders/partnerships
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✅ Charities or trusts
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✅ 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.