Sex Establishments Licences

Sex Establishments Licence

Summary

A sex establishment licence is required to operate a premises as a sex shop, sex cinema or sex encounter establishment.

Eligibility

Licences may be granted by the Council who are required to be satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a licence and regard is made to the locality of the premises, the use to which other premises in the vicinity are put and the layout, character or condition of the premises. The Council may also have regard to its policy guidelines when considering applications.

Procedure

Application form to be completed. Once an application has been received, consultation takes place with the Police, Fire Service, Local Ward Members and Planning / Environmental Health Departments prior to a report on the application being referred to the Licensing Regulatory Board for consideration.

Helplines

Regulatory Services, Licensing Team: 01226 772468.

Email: Regulatory Services

Charges/Fees

£5,250 (12 months licence).

Methods of Payment Available

By cash or cheque with the application.

Opening Times/Locations

The new Licensing Office is now open at the Civic Hall, Eldon Street. Our office at the Civic Hall is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

How the customer can help

Provide layout / site plans, produce copies of any relevant planning approval, evidence that publication of the application has taken place in accordance with the statutory provisions.

Application Form References

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council Application for sex establishment licence.

Leaflets

None.

Distribution Points

Application forms are available from our offices at the Civic Hall, Eldon Street.

Legislation

Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.

Response Times/Next Steps

The Council try to process applications within 6 weeks (subject to statutory notice periods).

Out of Hours Procedure

No out of hours procedure for this service.

Contact Details

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Regulatory Services
PO Box 602
Barnsley
S70 9FB

Phone: Regulatory Services 01226 772468
Email: Regulatory Services

Additional Notes

The number of sex establishments in the Barnsley town centre is currently restricted to two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q I want to sell 'restricted 18' videos, do I need a sex shop licence?

A Yes, R18 videos may only be lawfully sold in licensed sex shops.

Q What restrictions / conditions are made by the Council on sex shop licences?

A The main ones concern the hours of operation, displays or advertisements on the premises, the content of window displays and the prohibition of under 18's entering the premises.