Premises licences

As the licensing authority, we handle premises licence applications within Newark and Sherwood. Applications are made on the GOV.UK website.

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If you need help, our Guidance Notes for Premises Licence 2023 (PDF, 284kb) document offers detailed information to help with your application.

You can also send questions to customer services using the details at the bottom of this page.

What happens next

There’s a period of 28 days from the day we receive your application during which valid objections can be made against the application. 

If there are no objections the licence will be granted on the 29th day. 

If there is an objection, we will send you a 'notice of hearing'. We are required under the Licensing Act 2003 (Hearings) Regulations 2005 to provide you with copies of all the relevant representations that have been made.  

The application and the objections will then be sent to our licensing committee for a decision no later than 20 working days after the end of the initial representation period.

Best Bar None accreditation

Once your licence has been granted, you may also wish to apply for 'Best Bar None' accreditation.

Best Bar None helps customers to identify well-run pubs, bars, clubs and other businesses that serve alcohol.

Supported by the Home Office, the drinks and hospitality industries, the accreditation assesses against four themes:

• Venue management: assesses security measures and steps taken to reduce noise, litter and other effects the business may have
• Staff training and care: considers how staff are supported by the business to perform their role, develop and grow, and to protect their wellbeing
• Customer safety and welfare: reviews how well the venue takes care of its customers including preventing alcohol being sold to those under 18
• Customer service and community: recognises that businesses work hard to provide a warm welcome to their customers and the communities they are part of