How long does the applying for a premises licence process take?

The end-to-end timeline depends on which stage you're at. Common steps run on these timeframes: "Preparation time varies"; "28-day consultation period"; "28 days"; "Hearing within 20 working days of end of consultation". Add court / counterparty response time on top — disputed matters can run months longer than the bare minimum.

How much does it cost?

Main outlays are: Application fee — £100–£1,905 depending on rateable value; Annual fee — £70–£1,050 depending on rateable value. Court fees often qualify for Help with Fees remission if you're on a low income. Solicitor fees are extra and vary widely — many matters can be done as a litigant in person.

Where can I find the official forms and guidance?

The official sources are: Apply for a premises licence (GOV.UK). Always use the forms / guidance from the issuing authority's own site — third-party copies can be out of date.

Can I do this myself without a solicitor?

Yes — many people complete this kind of matter as a litigant in person. The site walks through each step in plain English. A solicitor is recommended if: large sums are at stake, the other side has legal representation, the matter involves criminal liability, children, immigration, or you're unsure on any procedural deadline. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice, Law Centres, and (for some matters) LawWorks pro bono clinics.

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Licensing Law

4 steps

Updated March 2026

England & Wales

Applying for a Premises Licence

How to apply for a premises licence to sell alcohol, provide entertainment, or serve late-night refreshment.

This page mainly applies to England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland may have different rules — check the jurisdiction before relying on this information.

Overview

Under the Licensing Act 2003, you need a premises licence to sell or supply alcohol, provide regulated entertainment (live music, theatre, cinema), or serve late-night refreshment (hot food/drink between 11pm and 5am). Applications are made to the local licensing authority (usually the district or borough council).

Who Can Use This Process

You are likely eligible to use this guide if your situation involves a premises licence.
You have a genuine legal basis for the matter (contract, tort, statutory right, etc.).
You have made reasonable attempts to resolve the matter directly with the other party first.

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Your Application

Complete the application form and prepare an operating schedule describing the licensable activities, proposed hours, and steps you will take to promote the four licensing objectives (prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, protection of children from harm).

Timeframe: Preparation time varies

Practical Tips

Consider pre-application discussions with the police and environmental health

Submit the Application and Advertise

Submit the application to the local authority with the fee, a plan of the premises, and the consent of the proposed Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS). You must also advertise the application by displaying a notice at the premises and publishing in a local newspaper or on the licensing authority's website.

Timeframe: 28-day consultation period

Practical Tips

The notice must be displayed for 28 consecutive days

Consultation Period

Responsible authorities (police, fire, environmental health, planning, child protection) and any person may make representations during the 28-day consultation period. If no representations are made, the licence is granted as applied for.

Timeframe: 28 days

Licensing Hearing (if needed)

If relevant representations are received, the licensing sub-committee holds a hearing. You can attend, make representations, and call witnesses. The committee can grant the licence (with or without conditions), exclude certain activities, or refuse the application.

Timeframe: Hearing within 20 working days of end of consultation

Costs

Application fee£100–£1,905 depending on rateable value

Annual fee£70–£1,050 depending on rateable value

Important Warnings

Operating without a premises licence is a criminal offence carrying a fine of up to £20,000 and/or up to 6 months' imprisonment.

The DPS must hold a personal licence.

Conditions attached to a licence are enforceable — breach can result in review and revocation.

Useful Links

Apply for a premises licence (GOV.UK)

Frequently asked questions

How long does the applying for a premises licence process take?: The end-to-end timeline depends on which stage you're at. Common steps run on these timeframes: "Preparation time varies"; "28-day consultation period"; "28 days"; "Hearing within 20 working days of end of consultation". Add court / counterparty response time on top — disputed matters can run months longer than the bare minimum.
How much does it cost?: Main outlays are: Application fee — £100–£1,905 depending on rateable value; Annual fee — £70–£1,050 depending on rateable value. Court fees often qualify for Help with Fees remission if you're on a low income. Solicitor fees are extra and vary widely — many matters can be done as a litigant in person.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid?: Watch out for: Operating without a premises licence is a criminal offence carrying a fine of up to £20,000 and/or up to 6 months' imprisonment.; The DPS must hold a personal licence.; Conditions attached to a licence are enforceable — breach can result in review and revocation.. If you're unsure on any of these, get advice from a regulated solicitor or a free service like Citizens Advice before acting.
Where can I find the official forms and guidance?: The official sources are: Apply for a premises licence (GOV.UK). Always use the forms / guidance from the issuing authority's own site — third-party copies can be out of date.
Can I do this myself without a solicitor?: Yes — many people complete this kind of matter as a litigant in person. The site walks through each step in plain English. A solicitor is recommended if: large sums are at stake, the other side has legal representation, the matter involves criminal liability, children, immigration, or you're unsure on any procedural deadline. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice, Law Centres, and (for some matters) LawWorks pro bono clinics.