Obtaining a Temporary Event Notice

The general rule is that only licensed premises can sell alcohol, for example, pubs, clubs, and supermarkets, but there are times when you want to run an event away from such venues – a village hall, a marquee in the garden, or a village fete.

Such events can be licensed by a Temporary Event Notice (affectionately known as a ‘TEN’).  In theory, the procedure is relatively simple – you fill in a form, post it off with the appropriate cheque and, provided that the police do not foresee any problems with the event, the TEN is granted.  There is no qualification needed to apply for a TEN (but there are limits on the number that you can apply for) and anyone over the age of 18 can apply.

In practice the process is a more complicated. To start with the form can appear quite complex and it’s not unusual for one off applications made by the public to be delayed due to errors, potentially putting events under threat. Secondly, it always pays to check that the police are not likely to object. This can usually be done with a single phone call, but it can be off-putting to voluntarily speak to the police.

The most common hiccup is forgetting the requirement for 10 working days notice.  At best, this is two weeks and where there are bank holidays it is even longer.

Therefore, it is prudent to employ an experienced solicitor, who is familiar with the process and the paperwork, to do this for you, particularly where you think there may be objections to the application and where time is limited.

Harrison Drury’s dedicated licensing team regularly deals with applications for TENs for a variety of events, including weddings, charity and community events, and we can take care of your application for you.

To discuss this, or any other licensing matter, please contact Andrew Bartlett on 01995 607950.