Sport stands require a safety certificate for any covered stand that holds 500 or more spectators. This is known as a regulated stand.

You will still need the safety certificate for the stand even if the sports ground itself doesn't need a safety certificate.

"Stand", in relation to a sports ground, means an artificial structure (not merely temporary) which provides accommodation for spectators. It must be wholly or partly covered by a roof.

In relation to the number of spectators in a stand provided with covered accommodation, "covered" means covered by the roof or other part of the structure which constitutes the stand.

A safety certificate may be either: 

  • A general safety certificate
    • covers the use of the stand for viewing an activity, or a number of activities, specified in the certificate
    • for an indefinite period which starts on a specified date 
  • A special safety certificate
    • covers the use of the stand for viewing a certain specified activity or activities
    • on a certain specified occasion or occasions 

One certificate may cover more than one stand.

Contact the Licensing Team to find out whether you need a safety certificate and how to apply.