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Sex establishment licence

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You need a licence to run a sexual entertainment establishment, such as a sex shop, a sex cinema or a sexual entertainment venue.

Licences for sex establishments are granted under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.

Who can apply

To apply for a licence you must:

  • be at least 18 years old
  • not be disqualified from holding a licence
  • have been resident in the UK at least 6 months immediately before the application or, if a body corporate, must be incorporated in the UK
  • not have been refused the grant or renewal of a licence for the premises within the last 12 months unless the refusal has been reversed on appeal

Before you start

Applications must include:

  • the applicant's name, address and, where the applicant is an individual, their age
  • the full name of the company, its registered or principle address and the full names and addresses of the directors and management
  • the address of the premises and the hours and days when it is intended to trade

How to apply

Complete the application form and return it to:

licensing@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

There are fees involved with this licence:

New Application - Non returnable

  • Sexual Entertainment Venue - £3,167
  • Sex Shop/Cinema - £3,165

Annual Fee

  • Sexual Entertainment Venue - £1,524
  • Sex Shop/Cinema - £1,524

Variations

  • Sexual Entertainment Venue - £984
  • Sex Shop/Cinema - £984

Minor Variations

  • Sexual Entertainment Venue - £286
  • Sex Shop/Cinema - £286

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