Guide
Vary your premises licence
How to apply for full and minor variations to your existing premises licence — change hours, layout, activities, or conditions.
If you need to change your premises licence — for example, extending hours, adding activities, or altering the layout — you must apply for a variation. There are two types: a full variation for significant changes, and a minor variation for small, non-contentious changes.
Full variation process
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Complete the variation application form
Describe the changes you want to make. If changing the layout, include an updated premises plan.
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Submit with the correct fee
The full variation fee is the same as the original application fee for your rateable value band (£100-£635). Submit to your local licensing authority.
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Advertise the variation for 28 days
Display a notice at the premises and place an advertisement in a local newspaper, just as you did for the original application.
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Send copies to responsible authorities
On the same day you submit, send copies to all responsible authorities (police, fire, environmental health, etc.).
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Attend a hearing if representations are made
If objections are received during the 28-day consultation period, the licensing authority will hold a hearing. You can negotiate conditions to resolve objections beforehand.
Minor variation process
A minor variation is simpler, cheaper, and faster. It costs £89 and is decided within 15 working days with no hearing.
Use a minor variation for:
- Small changes to the premises layout (not affecting capacity or access)
- Adding conditions that promote the licensing objectives
- Reducing hours or removing licensable activities
You cannot use a minor variation to extend hours or add new licensable activities — you need a full variation for those changes.
No right of appeal: If a minor variation is refused, you cannot appeal — you must apply for a full variation instead.