Why Keeping DPS Details Up to Date Is Essential

In England and Wales, the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) plays a pivotal role in the lawful and responsible sale of alcohol under the Licensing Act 2003. Every premises licensed to sell alcohol must have a named DPS who holds a valid personal licence. This individual is responsible for the day-to-day management of the premises and […]
What Is National Pubwatch?

Here at The Licensing Guys, we fully support National Pubwatch! National Pubwatch was established to support existing Pubwatch schemes and encourage the creation of new ones. Its primary aim is to help reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder by fostering cooperation between licensees, Local Authorities, and Police. It does not manage or accredit local schemes directly, […]
What Happens When a Premises Licence Is Reviewed? – A Guide for Licensees and Managers

What Is a Licence Review? A Review is a formal process under the Licensing Act 2003 that allows concerns about a Licensed Premises to be examined by the Local Authority. It can lead to changes to the Licence – or even its suspension or revocation – if the premises is found to be undermining one […]
What Happens If a Pubwatch Member serves breaks the Pubwatch Ban themselves?

This is a common question that pops up at Training Courses, whereby one licensee alleges that a competitor premises is allowing persons who are banned by the Pubwatch to drink in their bar. Overview: Pubwatch relies on mutual cooperation. If one member disregards a ban, it weakens the collective deterrent and may encourage banned individuals […]
Unannounced Visit from Police or Enforcement Officers? Here’s What to Do

Under Section 179 of the Licensing Act 2003, both Police Officers and authorised persons under Section 13 of the Licensing Act (such as licensing officers, environmental health officers, fire officers, and immigration officers) have the legal right to enter licensed premises without a warrant to check for compliance with licensing laws. What You Should Do? […]
Public Nuisance vs. Statutory Nuisance – Understanding the Legal Distinctions in Licensing and Environmental Law

Public Nuisance (Licensing Act 2003) Definition: Under the Licensing Act 2003, public nuisance is one of the four statutory licensing objectives. It refers to any activity or condition arising from licensable activities at licensed premises that adversely affects the public or a section of the public, such as noise, odour, light pollution, or antisocial behaviour. […]
Preventing Underage Alcohol Sales in Licensed Premises – Briefing Sheet for Managers and Staff

Legal Overview: Under the Licensing Act 2003, it is unlawful to: Penalties include: Best Practice Measures: 1. Challenge 25 Policy Acceptable ID includes: Passport, Photocard Driving Licence or PASS-accredited ID cards. 2. Staff Training Legal responsibilities How to check ID How to refuse service NB You should keep training records and update regularly. 3. Refusals […]
Police Assistance in Expelling Individuals from Licensed Premises: The Law Explained

Under the Licensing Act 2003, licensees and their staff have the legal right to refuse entry to or expel individuals from licensed premises if their behaviour threatens the licensing objectives—such as preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, or protecting children from harm. When Can Police Assist? Police officers can assist a licensee or their […]
Lost Your Personal Licence? Here’s What to Do

A Personal Licence is a legal requirement for anyone who authorises the sale of alcohol in England and Wales. It comes in two parts: If either part is lost, stolen, or damaged, it’s important to act quickly to stay compliant with the Licensing Act 2003. Step-by-Step: Replacing a Lost Personal Licence: Reach out to the […]
Is There a Legal Right to Be Served in a Pub?

In short: No, there is no automatic legal right to be served alcohol in a pub in England and Wales. No “Right to a Pint”: While pubs are public-facing businesses, they are not public services. The law does not guarantee a right to be served alcohol, and licensees have discretion over whom they serve – […]