Cinema Licensing

If you show films to the public, you may need a cinema licence under the Cinema (NI) Order 1991.

No film can be shown unless it has a certificate from the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).

Who needs a Cinema Licence?

You must have a cinema licence if you:

• Show films to paying members of the public.

Even if you do not need a licence, you may still need to tell us about your film showings.

All film screenings must be supervised and your venue must meet health and fire safety standards.

Licence fees

Cheques should be made payable to: Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Special permissions

Standard hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am – 1am.

If you want to show films outside these hours, or on Sundays, tick the relevant boxes on your application or renewal form.

Children’s Showings

A child is anyone under 16.
If you plan to show films to children, tick the ‘Special Permission for Children’s Showings’ box on your form.

If you are usually exempt from licensing, or already hold a licence that does not include children’s showings, you must still notify us if you plan to screen films for children.

Film Ratings

The Council recognises BBFC film ratings: U, PG, 12, 12A, 15, and 18.
If you want to show a film without a BBFC certificate, contact us for advice.

The Council can restrict or ban any film showing, whether it is classified or not.

Licence conditions

Once you have a cinema licence, you must follow all its terms and conditions.
Contact us if you would like more information about standard licence conditions.

Offences

It is against the law to:

• Show films without a licence (unless exempt)

• Break the conditions of your licence

Doing so may result in your licence being cancelled and a fine of up to £20,000.

Exemptions 

You do not need a cinema licence if:

• You show films for six days or fewer in one calendar year (you must still notify us 14 days before your event).

We will then inform the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

• The film showing is for a registered charity or not-for-profit organisation, and
• The films are not shown for private gain (though you may charge to cover costs), or
• The main purpose is to inform or advertise.

You will need a licence if:

• The main purpose of your venue or organisation is to show films to children, or
• You have shown films on more than three of the past seven days.

Appeals

If your application for a licence is refused or conditions are added that you disagree with, you can appeal to the County Court.

A licence is not valid until you receive written confirmation from us. Do not show films until your cinema licence has been officially issued.

How to Apply

Apply Online: 

Application forms can be obtained from:

Contact Details

Email: licensing@nmandd.org

Telephone: 0330 137 4030