18.11.2019

Applying for a licence

New licensing applications have to fit with the local licensing policy which might, for example, seek to restrict the number of licenses in a particular area. Most local authorities post information about how to apply for licences and provide links to the guidance issued by the Home Office on their website and applications are via a prescribed form which may be submitted by post or downloaded and submitted electronically.

A key element of the application is completing the operating schedule which sets out what steps the applicant intends to take to promote the licensing objectives (for example, the arrangements for door security to promote the prevention of crime and disorder)

The operating schedule

The importance of the operating schedule is that if the application for the premises licence is granted, it will be incorporated, as enforceable conditions into the Licence itself which will in addition set out the permitted licensable activities and any limitations on them.

Best Bar None Awards

In many areas of the country, Best Bar None Award schemes, or their equivalents, are run with the aim of identifying and rewarding responsible pub/club operators. Premises which comply with high standards of operation in a number of assessed areas – beyond the legal requirements – are recognised at an annual awards ceremony. These premises may then feature in publicity material run by the local authority or town centre management groups and can advertise to the public that they are well-run premises.