Licensing Act 2003 FAQ
General licensing act 2003 FAQs
Please see
http://www.culture.gov.uk/alcohol_and_entertainment/licensing_act_2003/
How will the changes to the law affect events such as under 18 discos held in nightclubs?
It will be unlawful to allow unaccompanied children aged under 16 into relevant premises between midnight and 5 a.m. where alcohol is supplied for consumption on the premises. This will apply to many nightclubs as they operate longer hours and have alcohol for sale after midnight. To hold under-18 discos, premises licence holders will have to state in their operating schedules what steps they will take to protect children from harm. This is only basic information if you require further information call Liverpool Direct on 0151 233 3015
What will the magistrates' court and local authority do to help me through this process?
The magistrates' court and local authority will provide guidance and general advice and try to be as helpful as possible, however it is your responsibility to make all the required applications and put your paperwork in order. Remember with over 1400 licensed premises in Liverpool it is unfortunately not possible for Council court staff to help you with individual and/or detailed preparation of your application. You may need to seek your own legal advice.
What is a personal licence?
It is a licence which is granted to an individual and authorises that person to sell or supply alcohol, or authorise the sale or supply of alcohol under the premises licence. The application must be made to the Council where you normally live. For example, if you live in Knowsley but your pub or club is in Liverpool, you must apply to the Knowsley licensing authority for your personal licence. The licence will last for 10 years before it has to be renewed. This is only basic information if you requires further information call Liverpool Direct on 0151 233 3015
Will I have to pass a licensing exam before I can get a personal licence?
Not if you currently hold a justices licence. You will only need to attend a recognised training course and pass an examination if you have not held a personal licence previously. The government has published a syllabus for this qualification and is available on the Department for Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) website -
www.culture.gov.uk.
What are the licensing objectives?
They are the prevention of crime and disorder, the prevention of public nuisance, the promotion of public safety and the protection of children from harm. These licensing objectives are all of equal importance.
What are the main changes under the new licensing laws?
The alcohol licences and certificates that are issued by the courts and the public entertainment licences, cinema, theatre and late night café licences which are issued by the Council will disappear and will be replaced by one premises licence issued by the Council. This is only basic information and I will take your details and email, a response will be received within 2 working days. Mail to:
licensing@liverpool.gov.uk
