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To run a sex shop, sex cinema or sex encounter establishment in this Borough you will need a licence from us, issued under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 (c. 30). Sexual entertainment venues (SEVs) are a category of sex establishments that provide relevant entertainment. This category was introduced in the Policing and Crime 2009 Act (2009 Act).
There are four categories of sex establishments: sex shops, sex cinemas, sexual entertainment venues and hostess bars.
An applicant for a sex establishment licence:
To apply for a new licence or to renew an existing licence you will need to:
The Council expects and encourages those engaged or wishing to engage in operating a sex establishment premises to carefully consider how they operate and how what they do may affect residents and businesses. Prior to making an application you should read our policy carefully.
All applications must be advertised in the local press. In addition, where the application is in respect of premises, a notice must be displayed outside the premises for 21 days. A copy of the application must also be sent to the Metropolitan Police no later than seven days after the application is made.
Any person objecting to an application for the grant, renewal or transfer of a licence may give written notice of their objection to us, stating the grounds of the objection, within 28 days of the date of the application. All applications for the grant or renewal of a licence will be considered by our Regulatory Licensing Committee. An application can only be refused on the following grounds:
We may impose terms, conditions and restrictions in addition to the standard conditions contained within our policy when granting or renewing a licence
Sex establishment licences last for 12 months. You must apply to renew your licence at least 6 weeks before it is due to expire.
If you have a concern or complaint about a sex establishment, please contact the Licensing Team.
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