News (Janurary 2006)

Late Night Refreshment Licences -
What you should know

Who needs one?

If you are selling hot food or drink between 11pm and 5am for consumption on or off premises - you do.

Why?

As a result of the Licensing Act 2003 which came into force earlier this year.

What changed with the new Act?

Before the Licensing Act 2003, licenses were not required for 'take-aways'.(ie premises used only for service of meals to be consumed off the premises)

What's the deadline for getting a new licence?

It's gone. Applications should have been in by 1 September 2005. From 24 November 2005 all late-night refreshment houses, 'take-aways', mobile catering vehicles, supermarkets or other business premises that heat food or drink for customers between 11pm and 5am or provide facilities whereby customers can do the same must have a valid Premises Licence.

How long does it take to get a licence?

Applications are expected to take typically between 28 days and 2 months to process but it could take longer if objections are made to the licence either by the public or by one of the 8 authorities that review the application for licensing (for example complaints of noise and disturbance)

I haven't applied for one - what can I do?

Contact McCombie and Co immediately to make your application. leongreenstone@mccombie.co.uk.

If your application was in by 24 September licensing authorities will not take enforcement action for not holding a valid licence. on or after 24 November 2005. Applications made after 24 September may not be processed in time and enforcement action may be taken against you for not holding a valid licence on or after 24 November 2005.

What would enforcement action mean in practical terms?

Your business may be closed down by the police or by the councils enforcement officers until you have obtained a valid licence.

If you don't already hold a premises licence and think you may need one contact us without delay for professional advice and guidance.

Note:- The Late Night Refreshment Premises Licence is completely separate from Liquor Personal Licenses which we can also assist you with if required.