The purpose of a premises licence
Premises licences replace the types of licences previously issued by either magistrates courts or the council. For example, alcohol sales licences replace on- and off-licences. Likewise entertainment licences replace separate licenses for public entertainment, theatre and cinema.
A premises licence is a single licence that covers all the licensable activities taking place at a premises - for example alcohol sales, public entertainments and theatrical performances. The licence once granted continues in existence until it is cancelled, but will need to be renewed annually.
Types of premises affected
Premises licences will be required for a wide range of premises, including:
- Public houses
- Restaurants
- Premises with retail alcohol sales (supermarkets, shops, off licences etc.)
- Hotels and other commercial residential premises
- Non-qualifying clubs
- Late night refreshment premises
Types of services affected
A premises licence is required for the use of any premises, part of premises, or place for:
- The sale of alcohol
- The supply of alcohol or on behalf of a club to the order of the member of a club
- The provision of regulated entertainment
- The provision of late night refreshment
Applying for a premise licence
Applications for premises licences have to be supported by an operating schedule. The operating schedule will have to set out the nature and times of licensable activities taking place along with measures to meet the four licensing objectives contained in the Licensing Act of 2003. The application will also have to specify the designated premises supervisor - again another new provision. A designated premises supervisor will have to be a person who holds a personal licence under the Licensing Act of 2003, and is in control of the day-to-day management of the premises.