Entertainment Licence

Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions (Northern Ireland) Order 1985

Events Requiring an Entertainment Licence

Indoor entertainment:

• boxing matches or exhibitions and similar sports
• music, singing, dancing or similar entertainments
• Snooker, pool, billiards and dart matches, or exhibitions and similar games
• theatrical performances
• video game machines.

Outdoor entertainment:

• events which have outdoor festivals, music, singing, dancing etc.
• open-air concerts (whether or not there is a charge).

Occasional Licence

Premises only used for entertainment purposes up to a maximum of 14 occasions per year can obtain an Occasional Licence.

The Purpose of an Entertainment Licence

To ensure that people enjoy themselves in safety and in reasonable comfort knowing that should an emergency occur, they will be able to leave the premises or venue safely.

What Type of Premises or Venue Require a Licence?

Premises used for entertainment, can range from small halls to large purpose built multi-use complexes, including bars, clubs, restaurants, snooker halls, leisure centres and marquees. Venues include those that put on open-air musical entertainment and street entertainment.

How Long Will It Take To Receive An Entertainment Licence?

A minimum of 28 days to approve provided there are no objections. If any objections are received or applications are incomplete this process may take longer.

What Happens After I Get My Entertainment Licence?

You are responsible for ensuring that all the conditions of the licence are adhered to. These can be found on the front and back of the licence and include the following:

• days and hours of use
• types of entertainment that may be provided
• occupant capacities
• the licence must be on public display.

During Performance Inspections 

The Licensing Officer will inspect licensed premises when in use, to determine that all conditions are being complied with and will take any necessary action should this not be the case.

Renewals

When applications are received before the expiry date of the current licence the current licence shall remain in force until the renewal is determined by the Council.

If the application is received after the expiry date of the licence the application, the licence is deemed to have expired and the procedure is the same as applying for a licence for the first time (except plans are not required, unless alterations were made to premises since the last application).

How to Apply

Application forms can be obtained from:

or by clicking on the links in the downloads section:

Contact Details

Email: licensing@nmandd.org

Telephone: 0330 137 4030