Guide

Apply for a club premises certificate

How qualifying clubs (social clubs, sports clubs, working men's clubs) can apply for a certificate to supply alcohol to members without needing a DPS or personal licence holder.

Food, Drink & Hospitality UK-wide

A club premises certificate allows qualifying clubs to supply alcohol to members and their guests without needing a premises licence, personal licence holder, or Designated Premises Supervisor. The club committee takes collective responsibility for compliance with the licensing objectives.

This route is available to genuine members' clubs — not to commercial venues or businesses that operate as clubs in name only.

How to apply

  1. Check your club meets the qualifying conditions

    Your club must: have at least 25 members, operate a 48-hour waiting period between membership application and admission, be established in good faith as a club (not for commercial profit), and ensure no individual benefits financially from alcohol supply.

  2. Prepare club rules and constitution

    Include your club constitution or rules showing how the club is governed, membership procedures, and arrangements for alcohol supply. The club rules must demonstrate the qualifying conditions are met.

  3. Complete the application form and operating schedule

    The application form and operating schedule are similar to a premises licence application. Describe the activities, hours, and measures to promote the four licensing objectives.

  4. Prepare a premises plan

    Provide a scale plan showing the areas where alcohol will be supplied, entertainment will take place, and members will consume alcohol.

  5. Submit to your local licensing authority with the fee

    Submit the completed application, club rules, premises plan, and fee (same bands as premises licences, £100-£635 based on rateable value). The 28-day consultation period applies.

  6. Send copies to responsible authorities

    As with premises licence applications, send copies to the police, fire service, environmental health, and other responsible authorities on the day of submission.

Benefits of a club premises certificate

  • No DPS required: The management committee is collectively responsible — no need for a personal licence holder
  • Lower regulatory burden: Reviews and enforcement follow a similar but slightly lighter process
  • Supply to members and guests: Can supply alcohol to members and genuine guests of members

Ongoing obligations

  • Pay the annual fee (same band structure as premises licences)
  • Comply with licence conditions and mandatory conditions
  • Notify the licensing authority of changes to club rules or officers
  • Keep records of membership and club finances

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