Licensing Act 2003

The Licensing Act 2003

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The Licensing Act 2003 came into force on 24 November 2005. Local authorities are now responsible for licensing alcohol and other activities within their council area.

What do the changes to the Licensing Laws mean for you?

The changes affect everyone. The most noticeable is the end of "permitted hours". Instead of a fixed closing time, bars, clubs and other premises are allowed to open during the hours they choose, subject to objections from others. Rules about the selling of alcohol to under 18s have been tightened up and simplified, and the rules about children’s access to licensed premises have also changed.

In this section of our site you can read the background to the new Act, the key changes the new Act brings, all about the types of licences available and an introduction to our licensing policy.

By looking through our guidance for applicants, you can also find out how the process works if you want to sell or supply alcohol, provide regulated entertainment or serve late night refreshment (hot food or hot drink at any time between 11pm and 5am). We have put together specific help for premises licence applications including takeaways and late night cafes as well as for qualifying members clubs. We have also put together comprehensive advice for local residents / businesses explaining how you can have your say on how a particular premises is run.

Please note: This information is accurate at the time of posting but may be liable to change. You should supplement it with independent advice where appropriate.

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