Licensing authorities

An introduction to the regulatory functions of licensing authorities in relation to licensing premises for gambling.

There are four main types of gambling permit that licensing authorities are responsible for issuing: alcohol-licensed premises; family entertainment centres; prize gaming; and clubs.

Premises licences are granted by licensing authorities, who can authorise the provision of facilities for gambling.

Small society lotteries do not require a licence but must be registered with the licensing authority in the area where the principal office of the society is located.

The Gambling Commission's guidance on all of the functions of licensing authorities under the Gambling Act 2005.

Licensing authorities are required to exchange information with the Gambling Commission under the Gambling Act 2005.

Licensing authorities are required to submit returns to the Gambling Commission detailing: permits; temporary use notices; occasional use notices; premises inspections; and reasons for and outcomes of reviews.

Publications, statutory guidance, and advice of interest to licensing authorities.

Licensing authorities may run 'local authority lotteries' to raise funds to cover anything for which they have the power to incur expenditure. All local authority lotteries must be licensed by the Gambling Commission.

The Gambling Commission has a dedicated licensing authority telephone number and email address.