Licensing
Changes to Licensing Laws
The Licensing Act, 2003 became law in July 2003. Guidance
has been issued by the Secretary of State to Local Authorities. The
changes meant that from February 2005 we have the
additional responsibility of licensing the sale of alcohol.
The Council's Licensing Policy
Statement explains how we do the job, act as a decision
making tool and give guidance to applicants, licensees and
residents.
We work in partnership with the Police, Kent Fire Brigade and
trade groups like the Thanet Licensed Victuallers Association to
make sure the best possible licensing service is provided in
Thanet.
- The first appointed day was 7 February 2005.
- The second appointed day was the 24th November
2005. This marked the end of the old licensing
regime.
Premises that did not apply to the Council need to contact us.
If you do not have a premises licence from the
Council you cannot sell alcohol, provide regulated
entertainment or hot food or drink after 11.00pm.
Will it affect me?
It will affect you…. if you operate an establishment
where alcohol is consumed on or off the premises such
as….
- A public house or club
- An hotel or a guest house
- An off licence
- Supermarket
- Grocers and corner shops
Or if you manage or own premises such as
....
- Nightclubs or other places licensed for public
entertainment
- Sports entertainment venues
- Cinemas and theatres
- Village and community halls
- Cafes, restaurants and take-aways opening later than 11.00
pm
You will not be affected directly by the reforms if you
require a licence for ….
- Taxis and private hire vehicles, their drivers and
operators
- Tattooing, ear and body piercing, electrolysis and
acupuncture
- Street and house to house collections and local lotteries
- Pet shops, riding establishments, boarding kennels, catteries,
dog breeders, zoos and dangerous wild animals
- Scrap metal dealers