Hypnotism permit

In Westminster, if you wish to show, demonstrate or perform a hypnotism act in public, you must have our authorisation, issued under the provisions of the Hypnotism Act 1952, and comply with all conditions attached to that authorisation.

How to apply

Along with your application, you must:

• provide references from local authorities where you have given performances of hypnotism
• provide the location of proposed performances and a detailed description of how the organisers will ensure public safety if the performances takes place in a public space such as a street or park. We may require a risk assessments depending on the performance
• have third-party cover with a maximum liability of at least £2,000,000. You must submit a copy of the certificate with your application
• pay the correct fee

We encourage applicants to give us maximum possible notice to properly consider their applications. This is especially important for hypnotists that have not previously performed in Westminster.

Eligibility criteria

You must be aged 18 years or older.

Regulation summary

View a summary of the regulation relating to this permit

What happens next

When we receive your application, we will:

• contact the Federation of Ethical Stage Hypnotists or other professional body to which you belong
• require you to conduct a live performance to the officers or members of the council who will be determining the application
• require you and your representative to appear before our licensing sub-committee to give evidence in support of the application

We can waive the requirement to provide references, demonstrate performances or appear at a hearing if the hypnotist has recently performed in the borough under our terms of consent. 

Tacit consent

Tacit consent will apply if an application is unopposed. This means you can act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from the licensing authority by the end of the target completion period (40 calendar days).

Making an appeal

View information on appeals and complaints

Further information

Trade associations

• Agents Association
• Equity 
• National Entertainment Agents Council     
• Society for All Artists
• Federation of Ethical Stage Hypnotists

View the public register

View the public register online

You can also view a copy of the register at the council's offices during normal office hours. Please contact the Licensing team to make an appointment.