At TV Edwards, our specialist premises licence solicitors provide advice on how to obtain, vary, and manage premises licences under the Licensing Act 2003. If you are opening a new venue, organising events, or reviewing your licensing arrangements, our team will guide you through the process.
If you operate without the correct licence, you risk enforcement action or prosecution. Our experienced licensing solicitors will help make sure your business remains compliant while allowing you to continue operations.
We advise restaurants, bars, pubs, nightclubs, retailers, and event organisers across London and nationwide on all aspects of premises licensing.
I have found the solicitors to be a very committed group of individuals who have a genuine desire to act in the very best interests of their client.
Legal 500 UK (2023)
Need Advice on a Premises Licence?
Applying for a premises licence or managing an existing licence can involve complex legal requirements. We provide clear guidance to help ensure your application succeeds and your licence remains protected. We can also assist with:
- Applications for new premises licences
- Variations to existing licences
- Advice on designated premises supervisor responsibilities
- Completing the designated premises supervisor consent form
- Licence reviews, appeals, and regulatory issues
What Is a Premises Licence?
A premises licence authorises businesses to carry out licensable activities under the Licensing Act 2003. If you intend to provide alcohol, late-night refreshment, or certain forms of entertainment on a regular basis, you will usually require a premises licence. Without a valid one, these licensable activities may constitute a criminal offence.
Premises licences are typically granted indefinitely unless they are surrendered, suspended, revoked, or allowed to lapse. In some circumstances, time-limited licences may also be issued.
Our premises licence solicitors help businesses get their licences, structure their operating schedules, and maintain compliance with the licensing laws.
Licensable Activities Under the Licensing Act 2003
A premises licence may be required if your business intends to carry out any of the following activities:
- The sale or supply of alcohol for consumption either on or off the premises
- Late night refreshment
- Performance of plays
- Exhibition of films
- Indoor sporting events
- Boxing or wrestling entertainment
- Live music performances
- Recorded music performances
- Dance performances
- Entertainment similar to live music, recorded music, or dance
In certain circumstances, a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) may be appropriate instead of a full premises licence, particularly for one-off or temporary events.
Designated Premises Supervisor Responsibilities
Where a premises licence authorises the sale of alcohol, the licence must name a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS). This DPS is responsible for making sure alcohol is sold responsibly and that the premises complies with licensing law.
The designated premises supervisor must hold a personal licence and accept the role formally by completing a designated premises supervisor consent form as part of the licence application. Their key responsibilities include:
- Ensuring alcohol is sold in accordance with the licence
- Promoting the licensing objectives
- Supervising alcohol sales at the premises
- Ensuring staff follow licensing law and licence conditions
Our licensing solicitors regularly advise businesses on DPS appointments and ensure all required documentation is completed correctly.
When a Temporary Event Notice May Be Appropriate
For short-term events or one-off activities, it may not be necessary to apply for a premises licence. Instead, a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) may allow licensable activities to take place for a limited period. This option is commonly used for:
- Temporary events
- Festivals or private functions
- Community events
- Short-term alcohol sales
Our solicitors can advise you on whether a TEN or full premises licence is the most appropriate route for your specific event.
Related Licensing Services
How Our Licensing Solicitors Can Help
Our licensing solicitors will provide comprehensive support throughout the premises licensing process. We can help with:
- Applications for new premises licences
- Drafting operating schedules and licence conditions
- Preparing DPS consent forms and licensing documentation
- Advising on compliance with licensing objectives
- Variations to existing licences
- Responding to objections or enforcement action
- Representation at licensing hearings and appeals
We take a practical and strategic approach to ensure your licence supports your business operations.
Why Choose TV Edwards?
- Highly ranked in legal directories – Legal 500 and Chambers UK
- Immediate emergency support – call us on 0203 440 8000
- Specialist representation – police station advisers, solicitors, and higher court advocates
- Hardworking problem-solvers – we fearlessly challenge evidence, protecting your interests
- Honest and down-to-earth – we explain your options compassionately and in plain English
Client Testimonials
Contact Our Solicitors Today
Premises Licence FAQs
What is a premises licence?
In short, a premises licence allows your business to carry out licensable activities like selling alcohol or providing late-night refreshment. It is granted by the local licensing authority and is done so under the Licensing Act 2003.
What does a designated premises supervisor do?
The designated premises supervisor (DPS) is responsible for supervising alcohol sales and ensuring compliance with licensing law. They must hold a personal licence and be named on the premises licence.
What is a designated premises supervisor consent form?
A designated premises supervisor consent form will confirm that the DPS agrees to take responsibility for the alcohol sales at the premises. The form has to be submitted as part of the premises licence application.
Can a premises licence be changed after it is granted?
Yes. A premises licence can be varied to change conditions, activities, or operating hours. In some cases, a minor variation application may be appropriate.
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