Check what licences you need for selling alcohol, providing entertainment, or providing late night refreshment under the Licensing Act 2003 and find out where you need to apply.
Premises Licences are needed for businesses including pubs, clubs, hotels, restaurants, takeaways, supermarkets and off licences, where you:
- sell and supply alcohol
- provide entertainment
- sell hot food between 11pm and 5am
To authorise the sale of alcohol, an individual must also hold a Personal Licence, except at registered private members clubs, which need a Club Premises Certificate, or in specific circumstances where a Temporary Event Notice is applied for.
Changes Under the New Licensing System
The new licensing system under the Licensing Act 2003 for the sale of intoxicating liquor has replaced Justices Licences - on-licences, restaurant, residential, registered club and off-licences - previously issued by Magistrates Courts under the Licensing Act 1964.
The Licensing Act 2003 Premises Licence has also replaced all legislation for the licensing of Theatre, Cinema, Public Entertainment and Late Night Refreshment premises.
Temporary Event Notices (TENs) are available for one-off and outdoor events, subject to limitations. Buskers and street entertainers also need a licence under the new system.
This section has a guide explaining each type of licence, including what types of entertainment need a licence, and changes affecting late night take-aways and fast-food outlets.
Go to Apply for a Licence to download application forms and guidance for applicants in Eastbourne.
Related Licences for Hospitality and Entertainment
You should send us a registration form for health and safety if you employ people, and a food premises registration for catering.
Related licences needed for entertainment are issued by other organisations, who you should contact direct.
All premises playing or performing music need Performing Rights copyright licences. Showing films or videos outside cinemas also needs a copyright licence. All Door Supervisors must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority.
