How to apply for relevant premises licences

Your first and most important step is to contact your local council to find out exactly which licences your business needs to operate legally. While food business registration is a standard requirement, you will almost certainly need separate permissions for specific activities like selling alcohol, playing music for customers, or placing tables and chairs outside. The council's website is the definitive source of information, so make this a priority task—applications can often take several months to be approved.

Why do I need a licence?

Premises licences exist to ensure businesses operate in a way that is safe and responsible. They are designed to uphold key objectives, such as preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, and protecting children from harm. Operating without the correct licence is a serious offence that can result in large fines or even your business being shut down, so it’s a step you absolutely cannot afford to miss.

Common licences you might need

The licences you need will depend entirely on what your business does. For a food and drink business in the UK, the most common ones include:

• Premises Licence (for alcohol): If you want to sell alcohol for consumption either on or off the premises, you must have a Premises Licence. This is a detailed application and also requires you to have at least one designated person who holds a Personal Licence to authorise the sales.
• Pavement Licence: Essential for creating an outdoor seating area. This licence gives you permission from the council to place tables, chairs, heaters, or barriers on the public pavement outside your property.
• TheMusicLicence: If you play recorded music in a public space for either customers or your staff, you are legally required to obtain TheMusicLicence from PPL PRS Ltd. This covers nearly all commercially released music.
• Late-Night Refreshment: If you plan to serve hot food or hot drinks to the public between the hours of 11 pm and 5 am, you will need a specific licence for late-night refreshment.

How to find out and apply

Your local council manages the entire application process, and it’s vital to follow their specific procedures.

1. Use the GOV.UK Licence Finder: A great place to start is the official GOV.UK online licence finder tool. By answering a few questions about your business, it will provide a helpful list of potential licences you may need to investigate.
2. Check your local council's website: This is the most critical step. Find the 'Licensing' section on your council's website to get the definitive requirements, application forms, guidance notes, and fee structures for your area.
3. Prepare and submit your application: Be thorough and accurate. Applications often require detailed information, such as floor plans, proposed opening hours, and a statement explaining how you will meet the four key licensing objectives.

Top Tip: Don't underestimate how long the licensing process can take, especially for alcohol. Start your applications at least three months before you plan to open your doors. This will help you avoid stressful and costly delays to your launch date.