Legal advice: Licensing applications

Whatever the merits of your licensing application, failure to follow the correct procedure could result in it being delayed or even rejected by the licensing authority.

It is an important starting point to ensure you have obtained the correct form from your local authority website and you know the relevant fee.

The fee for a minor variation is £89 and the fee for other applications depends upon the non-domestic rateable value of your premises.

You also need to consider the four licensing objectives and the impact your application could have on them as this will influence the type of application required.

Where there is an existing licence, ensure the original is submitted with your application or include an explanation as to why this is not available. This list is a summary — a call to your licensing authority will indicate any requirements or preferences.

Minor variation:

1. If you are applying for a minor variation to the layout of your premises, you must include a revised plan
2. Send the completed form, relevant documentation and fee to your local licensing authority
3. You must then advertise your application at the premises by displaying it on an A4 white notice in a place that is visible to the public
4. The notice must be displayed for 10 working days, starting on the working day after the minor variation application was received.

New premises:

Ensure you have the relevant documentation to submit:

• Licensing plans for the premises
• A signed consent form from the person who is going to be the designated premises supervisor

1. Send the completed form, relevant documentation and fee to your local licensing authority
2. You should also ensure a copy of the application and relevant documentation is sent to each responsible authority on the same day
3. You must then advertise your application at the premises by displaying it on an A4 pale blue notice in a place that is visible to the public
4. The notice must be displayed for 28 days, starting on the day after the new premises licence application was received by the licensing authority
5. A copy of the same notice must be advertised in a local newspaper within 10 working days, starting on the day after the application was received by the licensing authority

Variation of premises licence:

1. If you are applying for a variation to the layout of your premises, you must include a revised plan
2. Ensure points 2 to 6 above (for new applications) are followed.

• Where your local authority has the facility to submit online applications, this should be considered because of advantages, such as:
• The application is deemed received instantly when submitted rather than having to wait for it to be received in the post
• The fee can be made by credit or debit card at the same time
• There is no need to provide copies to the responsible authorities There are also specific requirements for the font size and colour in notices.

Ask the licensing authority or take legal advice if unsure. And remember that getting the procedure right is the bare minimum — what really counts is the substance of your application.