How to apply for a premises licence
Fees and how to apply
Fees
The relevant fee for the premises licence is based on the rateable value of the premises. The statutory fee structure is set by the government, not the local authority.
Fees payable depend on the non-domestic rateable value (NDRV) of the premises: this will be on your annual bill from council tax.
If you dispute the non-domestic rateable value of your property you must contact the Valuation Office Agency via their website below.
Find your NDRV on the Valuation Office Agency website (GOV.UK)
Under the Licensing Act 2003, the annual fee (legislation.gov.uk) for licensed premises becomes payable each year on the anniversary of the date the licence was initially granted. The responsibility to pay the annual fee lies with the licence holder. We will send you an invoice every year for the annual fee which is also based on the rateable value of your premises.
NDRV bands:
- Band A: 0 to £4,300
- Band B: £4,301 to £33,000
- Band C: £33,001 to £87,000
- Band D: £87,001 to £125,000
- Band E: £125,001 and over
Rateable value band followed by application fee and annual fee:
- A: £100 and £70
- B: £190 and £180
- C: £315 and £295
- D: £450 and £320
- E: £635 and £350
Any premises where a licensable activity is carried out must be licensed. Otherwise, this will be an unauthorised activity which carries a £20,000 fine and/or up to six months in prison.
Refund policy
Unless otherwise stated, fees for all Licensing functions are payable on application.
All applications must be accompanied by the required application fee before the application will be accepted or administered.
The application fee is non-refundable. This includes those applications that are rejected (where we have started to process the application and have undertaken checks) as well as applications which are withdrawn, discontinued or have been refused by the Licensing Committee.
In accordance with the Licensing Act 2003, the full fee is refundable for minor variations if the Licensing Authority fails to determine the application within the statutory time period.
Before you apply
Before making your application:
- Read the premises licence guidance (GOV.UK)
- Read Licensing Act 2003 - Right to work/immigration status
If you have any queries, please contact Licensing: licensing contact form
How to apply
Alternatively, you can request an application form from Licensing: licensing contact form
Please note:
- If you apply on a paper form, a copy of the application and plan must be sent to all the responsible authorities. Online applications go automatically to all the responsible authorities
- If you apply online, we will send you a designated premises supervisor consent form by email. This form must be completed by your designated premises supervisor returned to Licensing and the Police
Time period for council to normally approve the application
Two months
What happens if your application is not processed by this council within the normal approved time period (tacit consent)
It is in the public interest that this council must process the application. It may be required to consult other external agencies prior to making a decision, therefore should you not receive confirmation that your licence application has been granted or rejected within two months of submission, you may not commence your business.
If you have not heard from us in the time period
Complete our licensing contact form
Complaints concerning the process:
In the first instance, please use our licensing contact form
Any person who is refused a licence or objects to a condition attached to a licence may appeal to the local magistrates' court.
Any change in circumstances:
If you wish to vary any licence condition or change premises or proprietor a fresh application will be required.
Last updated: 19/03/2024 14:55
