What is a Club Premises Certificate?

Licensing Professionals have designed this guide to what is a club premises certificate is and how it differs from a traditional premises license.

A Club Premises Certificate is a type of license under the Licensing Act 2003 in England and Wales that allows qualifying clubs to supply alcohol and provide regulated entertainment to their members and guests without the need for a traditional premises license. This certificate is specific to "qualifying clubs," which have a membership and operate for the benefit of their members rather than for commercial gain.

Key Features of a Club Premises Certificate:

Qualifying Clubs:
- Membership-Based: The club must have a membership system with a genuine membership process, such as an application, approval, and payment of membership fees.
- Non-Commercial Purpose: The club must operate for the benefit of its members, not for profit. Any profits made must be reinvested in the club's activities or facilities.
- Club Rules: The club must have a constitution or set of rules that outline its operation, including the election of officers and management committee.
Activities Covered:
- Supply of Alcohol: The certificate allows the supply of alcohol to members and their guests on the club premises. The club can also serve alcohol as part of a membership fee or subscription.
- Regulated Entertainment: The certificate permits the club to provide entertainment, such as live or recorded music, dancing, plays, films, and indoor sporting events, for its members and guests.
- Late Night Refreshment: If the club wishes to provide hot food or drinks between 11 PM and 5 AM, this can also be included in the certificate.
Application Process:
- Local Authority: Applications for a Club Premises Certificate are submitted to the local licensing authority (usually the local council).
- Club Operating Schedule: The application must include a detailed operating schedule, which outlines the activities to be conducted on the premises, the hours of operation, and how the club will promote the licensing objectives.
- Responsible Authorities Consultation: The application is reviewed by responsible authorities, such as the police, fire service, environmental health, and the local planning department, who may object or suggest conditions.
Licensing Objectives:
- The club must demonstrate how it will uphold the four licensing objectives:
  1. The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
  2. Public Safety
  3. The Prevention of Public Nuisance
  4. The Protection of Children from Harm
Conditions and Compliance:
- Operating Conditions: The club must comply with any conditions imposed by the licensing authority to address concerns raised by responsible authorities or local residents.
- No Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS): Unlike a premises license, a Club Premises Certificate does not require a designated premises supervisor (DPS) to oversee the sale of alcohol.
- No Retail Sale of Alcohol: Alcohol can only be supplied to members and their guests, not sold retail to the general public.
Rights and Responsibilities:
- Member Access: Only members and their guests can access the club's facilities and participate in events or activities covered by the certificate.
- Club Secretary's Role: The club’s secretary typically acts as the main point of contact for licensing matters and is responsible for ensuring compliance with the certificate's terms.
Renewal and Variation:
- Indefinite Duration: Once granted, a Club Premises Certificate remains in force indefinitely unless it is surrendered or revoked.
- Variation: The club can apply to vary the certificate if it wants to change the activities it offers, extend its hours, or make other significant changes.

Common Uses:

Private Members' Clubs: Such as sports clubs, social clubs, working men's clubs, and other membership organizations.
Community Clubs: Clubs that serve a particular community or group, offering a range of social, cultural, or sporting activities.