You can get pre-application advice to help prepare your licensing application under the Licensing Act 2003.
This service helps you identify and fix issues early, making it easier to complete your application and avoid delays.
The advice cannot predict the outcome of your application. If representations are made, the decision will be made by a Licensing Sub-Committee.
What the service includes
Our licensing officers can provide:
- advice and help completing application forms
- guidance on suitable licence conditions for your premises and operation type
- support with drawing plans that meet licensing regulations
- advice on choosing an appropriate Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)
- help completing statutory notices and advertisements
- on-site visits to check plans and notice displays (for some applications)
- advice on noise control and preventing disturbance to nearby properties
- guidance on promoting the licensing objectives, including:
- preventing crime and disorder
- protecting children from harm
- managing age verification procedures
You can also view the model licence conditions.
Costs
Charges depend on the size and complexity of your application. All prices include VAT.
| Application type | What’s included | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Up to 3 hours of officer time. Includes advice on the licensing process, plans, public notices, advertisements, licence conditions, operating schedule and Live Music Act deregulation. Includes a meeting at Trafford Town Hall (no site visit). | £157.50 |
| Medium | Up to 6 hours of officer time. Includes a meeting and site visit by the Senior Licensing Officer. Covers the same advice as above. | £394.50 |
| Large | Up to 15 hours of officer time. Includes multiple site visits and liaison with Licensing, Environmental Health and Trading Standards. Suitable for large events such as festivals or sports venues that may also go through the Safety Advisory Group. | £1,342.50 |
Additional hours for medium and large applications are charged at £79 per hour.
This is a tailored business advice service, separate from any Primary Authority Partnership arrangements.
Disclaimer
Pre-application advice does not give exemptions from the licensing process.
Responsible authorities (including Licensing, Public Protection, Health and Safety, and Trading Standards) may still make representations.
Applications may still be referred to a Licensing Sub-Committee for a decision.
The advice does not include views from other responsible authorities such as the Police or Fire Service.
All applications subject to representations will be decided by the Licensing Sub-Committee based on the licensing objectives and the council’s policy.
Request pre-application advice
Complete the online form to request pre-application advice. Include:
- your contact details
- a short description of the premises (for example, off-licence, restaurant, bar, club, stadium or outdoor event)
- any supporting information