What is a Temporary Event Notice (TEN)?
A Temporary Event Notice, commonly called a TEN, is a way of authorising certain licensable activities for a limited period without applying for a permanent Premises Licence or permanently varying an existing licence.
What Can a Temporary Event Notice Cover?
A TEN can be used to authorise activities that would otherwise require licensing under the Licensing Act 2003. Depending on the event, this can include the sale or supply of alcohol, regulated entertainment and late-night refreshment.
Typical examples include one-off parties, pop-up events, wedding or private functions, temporary alcohol sales and temporary extensions of activities at an existing licensed premises.
Not sure a TEN covers your plans? Read Do I need a premises licence?
When Might You Use a TEN?
- a one-off event at otherwise unlicensed premises
- temporary alcohol sales
- a pop-up bar or event
- a wedding or private function
- a temporary extension of licensable activities at an existing venue
- a limited event where a permanent Premises Licence would be unnecessary
No. A person does not necessarily have to hold a Personal Licence to give a TEN, but the limits for Personal Licence holders and non-holders are different. What is a personal licence?
How Long Can a TEN Last and How Much Does It Cost?
A TEN is designed for temporary events and is subject to statutory limits. The local authority charges a statutory fee, which is considerably lower than the cost of a full Premises Licence.
| Limit | No Personal Licence | Personal Licence holder |
|---|---|---|
| TENs per year Standard and late combined | 5 | 50 |
| Late TENs per year Counted within the total | 2 | 10 |
| People at the event At all times, including staff | Fewer than 500 | Fewer than 500 |
| Length of each event | Up to 168 hours7 days | Up to 168 hours7 days |
| Per premises, per year Across everyone giving notices | 15 TENsmax 21 days in total | 15 TENsmax 21 days in total |
| Fee | £21 | £21 |
Swipe the table sideways to see both columns.
Figures checked against GOV.UK guidance on Temporary Event Notices in September 2026. Limits can change, so check the current guidance before giving notice.
How Much Notice Do I Need to Give?
There are two routes: a standard TEN and a late TEN.
At least 10 clear working days
Gives the licensing authority and relevant authorities more advance notice. If the police or environmental health object, there is a hearing to decide whether the event can go ahead.
5 to 9 clear working days
Can be used closer to the event, but stricter limits apply. If the police or environmental health object to a late TEN, the notice is not valid and the event cannot go ahead.
A late TEN is not always available. The notice must be submitted within the statutory time limits, so plan events as early as you can.
Can the Police or Environmental Health Object?
Yes. Relevant authorities can object where they consider that the event may undermine the licensing objectives. Depending on the circumstances, conditions may be discussed or the matter may need to be considered by the licensing authority.
What Happens if There Is an Objection?
An objection does not always mean the event cannot proceed. It may be possible to resolve concerns through discussion or by agreeing appropriate conditions. If an objection remains, the licensing authority may need to determine the matter through the statutory process.
For a late TEN, an objection means the event cannot go ahead.
Is a TEN the Same as a Premises Licence?
- TEN = temporary authorisation for a limited event or period.
- Premises Licence = ongoing authorisation for licensable activities at a premises.
When Is a Full Premises Licence Better?
If the business will operate regularly, needs ongoing alcohol sales, wants permanent licensed hours or expects to run frequent events, a Premises Licence is likely to be the more appropriate route.
What is a premises licence? · How to apply for a premises licence
TEN or Full Premises Licence?
Not sure whether you need a TEN or a full Premises Licence? Contact Licensing Solutions and we will help you work out the right route for your event or business.
We can help with
- Checking whether a TEN is suitable
- New Premises Licence applications
- Variations to an existing licence
- Operating schedules and statutory notices
Related licensing guides
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