Key Facts

  • This is the biggest change to Scotland's licensing laws in 30 years and it affects the vast majority of outlets where alcohol is served and sold
  • The current system of seven licences and statutory opening hours will be replaced with two new licences: personal licence and premises licence
  • To continue to trade from 1 September 2009, you will need to apply for a premises licence and submit an operating plan and layout plan as part of the application process
  • There will be a 'premises by premises' approach to opening hours, set by the local Licensing Board
  • Once granted, premises licences will remain in effect until the occurrence of certain events, such as:
    • The licence is surrendered or revoked under any provision of the Act
    • The licensed premises ceases to be used for the sale of alcohol
  • A personal licence will last for 10 years
  • To be eligible for a personal licence, an applicant must be aged 18 or over and possess a licensing qualification accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority
  • A personal licence is issued to an individual and allows the individual to authorise the sale of alcohol