Licensing and permits

Licensing policy

The Licensing Policy Statement 2026-2031 explains how we make decisions about licensed premises and events, such as pubs, bars, restaurants, off-licences and entertainment venues.

It provides a framework that supports businesses and the local economy while helping to keep communities safe. The policy seeks to balance economic growth, tourism and a vibrant nightlife with the need to prevent crime and disorder, protect public safety, reduce public nuisance and safeguard children from harm.

The policy supports the council's wider priorities for thriving communities, public health, community safety and sustainable growth. It also recognises the important contribution licensed premises and events make to Liverpool's economy, culture and visitor experience.

When making licensing decisions, we will consider the impact on local residents, businesses and visitors, while promoting the four licensing objectives:

  • Prevention of crime and disorder
  • Public safety
  • Prevention of public nuisance
  • Protection of children from harm

New guidance for off-sales premises (off-licences)

  1. Operating hours

    We have introduced guiding principles for the operating hours of off-sales licensed premises in response to concerns about crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour and public nuisance during the late-night period.

    Under the policy, new off-sales licence applications will generally be expected to have trading ending at midnight. However, this is a guiding principle rather than a fixed requirement. Applications will not automatically be granted because trading ends at midnight, nor will they automatically be refused because proposed hours are earlier or later than the guidance. All applications will continue to be considered on their individual merits and assessed against the licensing objectives.

  2. Planning permission conditions

    Applicants must ensure that their proposed trading hours comply with any planning permission conditions. Where planning and licensing hours differ, the earlier closing time must be observed.

  3. Enforcement action

    Premises operating outside the hours permitted by their planning permission may be liable to enforcement action or prosecution under planning legislation. Failure to comply with planning conditions may also result in the Local Planning Authority seeking a review of the premises licence, particularly where issues of public nuisance, crime or disorder arise.

Read the Licensing Policy Statement

  • Licensing Policy Statement 2026-31

    Download this document: Licensing Policy Statement 2026-31 (PDF: 874 KB)

    The licensing authority (the council) is required under the Licensing Act to publish its five-year Licensing Policy Statement which was approved by full council on 30 September 2026.

    First published: 20/01/2021

    Last updated: 3/11/2026