Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982

This Act (as amended by Policing and Crime Act 2010) categorises lap-dancing and similar premises as sexual entertainment venues (SEVs). When the provisions of the Act are adopted by a local authority, each premises wishing to provide relevant entertainment must apply for an SEV licence, and henceforth apply annually for a renewal of the licence, unless they fall within an exemption under the Act.

Residents may object to application for a new SEV licence, for a variation of an SEV licence or for the renewal of an SEV licence by giving notice in writing of their objection to the Council stating in general terms the grounds of the objection, not later than 28 days after the date of the application.

Unlike the alcohol/entertainment licensing and gambling licensing regimes, there are no ‘licensing objectives’ in the SEV licensing regime and so a wide range of matters can be included in an objection. Moral concerns will not be taken into account.

The names and addresses of objectors are not provided to an applicant under the SEV legislation.

See our step by step guide to the SEV licensing process

For more information contact us.