How to apply for premises and personal licences

To legally sell alcohol in the UK, you must get two types of licence from your local council: a Premises Licence for your venue and a Personal Licence for at least one key person. This process is detailed and can take several months to complete, so it's vital to start your applications well in advance of your planned opening date. Getting this right is not optional—it’s a legal requirement and is fundamental to running your business lawfully.

Understanding the Two Key Licences

It’s helpful to think of it like this: the Premises Licence authorises the place where alcohol can be sold, while the Personal Licence authorises the person who can sell or approve the sale of alcohol. You need both for your business to operate.

The Premises Licence: Authorising Your Venue

A Premises Licence is granted for a specific location. It doesn't just cover the sale of alcohol; it also covers other 'licensable activities' such as playing live or recorded music and serving hot food or drink between 11 pm and 5 am. When you apply, you must demonstrate how your business will actively support the four key licensing objectives:

• The prevention of crime and disorder
• Public safety
• The prevention of public nuisance
• The protection of children from harm

How to Apply for a Premises Licence

The application process is managed by the licensing authority at your local council and involves several steps:

1. Complete the application form: You can get this from your local council’s website. You will need to provide details about your business, the licensable activities you want to carry on, and the hours you wish to trade.
2. Provide a detailed plan of the premises: You must submit a clear and detailed plan of the building, highlighting specific areas such as fire exits, stages for performers, and the bar area where alcohol will be served.
3. Create an 'Operating Schedule': This is a crucial part of your application. It's a written statement explaining exactly how you will run your business to meet the four licensing objectives. This includes details on staff training, CCTV, dispersal policies, and age verification schemes (like Challenge 25).
4. Appoint a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS): You must name a single individual who will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the premises. This person must hold a Personal Licence.
5. Advertise your application: You are legally required to display a notice (usually a blue A4 poster) in a prominent position on the premises for 28 consecutive days. You must also place an advert in a local newspaper.
6. Submit and pay: Send the completed application, supporting documents, and the required fee to your local council. You must also send copies to 'responsible authorities' like the local police and fire service.

Once submitted, your application enters a 28-day consultation period where local residents or responsible authorities can raise objections. If objections are received, your application may have to be decided at a council licensing hearing.

The Personal Licence: Authorising a Person

A Personal Licence allows an individual to authorise the sale of alcohol at any venue that has a Premises Licence. While any member of staff can sell alcohol, every sale must be authorised by a Personal Licence holder. Crucially, the person named as the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) on the Premises Licence must hold one.

How to Apply for a Personal Licence

This licence is granted to an individual, not a business. The steps are more straightforward:

1. Get a qualification: You must first pass the Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH). This is typically a one-day course followed by a multiple-choice exam, covering licensing law and social responsibilities.
2. Obtain a criminal record check: You need to get a Basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. The certificate must be dated within one month of your application.
3. Complete the application: Fill out the Personal Licence application form from the council in the area where you live, not where your business is located.
4. Submit your documents: Send the form along with your APLH certificate, your DBS check, two passport-style photos (one endorsed), and the application fee to your council.

Once granted, a Personal Licence is valid indefinitely unless it is surrendered, suspended, or revoked.

Top Tips for a Smooth Application

• Start Early: The entire process, especially for the Premises Licence, can easily take two to three months, and much longer if there are complications or objections. Start as soon as you have a property secured.
• Be Thorough: A poorly completed operating schedule is a common reason for objections. Be specific and detailed about your procedures to show you are a responsible operator.
• Talk to the Authorities: Before submitting, consider speaking to the council's licensing department and the local police. They can often provide valuable, informal advice that can strengthen your application.
• Consider Professional Help: If your business is in a sensitive area or your plans are complex, using a specialist licensing solicitor can be a very wise investment. They can manage the entire process and help you navigate any objections.