The Home Office informally consults Licensing Authorities on licensing fee levels

The Home Office has written to Licensing Authorities in England and Wales asking for informal views on alcohol licensing fee levels. 

The survey's aim is to help the Home Office understand the true cost to Licensing Authorities of administering the Licensing Act 2003 regime when compared against centrally set licensing fees. 

Licensing fees are set by the Government with reference to premises' non-domestic rateable value. A multiplier is applied to premises with a higher rateable value that are used primarily or exclusively for alcohol consumption on the premises. There are also higher fee levels for large-capacity venues like stadia and arenas, as well as large-scale events. Other application fees, like minor variations, DPS variations, and transfers are set at a fixed amount irrespective of rateable value. 

Licensing Authorities have been asked to provide information on staff numbers and how many hours are spent on licensing related activities. Responses have been requested by 22 June 2023. 

We will keep an eye on this news item and will update you if matters progress to a wider consultation on fee levels.