Guide
Premises licence application: what the council asks for, and the fee
Updated
A premises licence application goes to the council where the premises is. GOV.UK lists what it needs: the applicant's details, the designated premises supervisor's details, a detailed plan of the premises and an operating schedule, with the fee for the rateable value band.
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When you need one
GOV.UK says you need a premises licence to sell alcohol or provide licensable activities from a venue, including serving hot food and drink between 11pm and 5am and most regulated entertainment such as live or recorded music, films and dance. You must be 18 or over to apply.
Source: GOV.UK: Premises licence (England and Wales)
What the application includes
- Your details, as the applicant.
- The details of the designated premises supervisor, who must hold a personal licence to sell alcohol.
- A detailed plan of the premises.
- An operating schedule, for example the hours when alcohol will be sold.
That list is GOV.UK's. Swale Borough Council adds that the plan is drawn to 1:100 scale, with external areas at 1:500, and that the application describes the steps the business will take to promote the licensing objectives.
Source: Swale Borough Council: Alcohol licensing, apply and pay
Notice and the wait
The application notice is displayed at or on the premises for 28 days from the day after the application was submitted, so neighbours and the responsible authorities can comment.
Source: GOV.UK: Premises licence (England and Wales)
The fee
The fee is set by the rateable value band: £100, £190, £315, £450 or £635 for bands A to E on every council we read.
Source: UK Premises Licence Council Fees: every row, with its source
Getting it prepared
This page explains what the council asks for; it is not advice on your own application. Licensing consultants prepare the forms, the plan, the operating schedule and the notices for a fee. Tell us about the premises and they will contact you with their price.