Licensing
Certain types of businesses must be licensed or registered with a relevant authority to operate legally. This is usually due to health and safety, public protection, environmental, or financial regulation concerns.
We are experienced at obtaining these licenses, dealing with registration, and where necessary, appealing against refusal of licences.
Alcohol, Entertainment, and Gambling Licences
These apply to pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, late night food businesses, venues offering live music or entertainment, betting shops, casinos, arcades and lotteries.
Animal-Related Businesses
Pet shops, dog breeders, kennels, catteries, zoos and riding schools must all be licensed.
Food Businesses
You will need to be registered if you operate a café, restaurant, food truck, takeaway, or caterers. Food importers/exporters and food manufacturers may need additional registrations or approvals, especially within the meat and dairy industries.
Transport and Taxis
We can help with-
- Private High and Hackney licences, and with appeals to the Magistrates’ Courts against their refusal.
- HGV and PSV operator licenses, and hearings before the Traffic Commissioners.
- Driving instructor approvals, and appeals to the Tribunal where needed
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Personal and Body Services
Tattooists, body piercers, beauty salons, massage and special treatment premises, and sunbed operators may need a licence, depending on which local authority you operate under.
Environmental Regulation
Waste carriers, scrap metal dealers and businesses emitting pollutants all require environmental permits.
The Security Industry Authority
The SIA regulates security firms and workers. We have a large amount of experience in obtaining the relevant licenses, and dealing with appeals when they are refused.
FAQs
Q: What can I license in my business?
A: Many things—such as branding, products, services, software, or creative content. Licensing allows others to use what you’ve created while you retain ownership and earn income.
Q: How do I protect myself when licensing IP?
A: A good licence agreement is key. We’ll make sure it sets clear limits, payment terms, and protections against misuse or overreach.