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Licensing

Premises Licence Minor Variation

A managed application service for low-impact changes to your premises licence, such as layout tweaks or small licensing-hour adjustments.

We manage the application for you

If you want to make changes to your premises licence then it’s likely that you’ll need to apply for a variation.  There are two types of variation application, a full variation or a minor variation.  

The type of application you need to apply for will depend on the change you want to make and if it is likely to impact on the licensing objectives. These are:  

  • The prevention of crime and disorder
  • Public safety
  • The prevention of public nuisance
  • The protection of children from harm

If the changes are low impact and do not affect the licensing objectives then you can apply for a minor variation.  For example, if you want to:

  • Make minor changes to the structure or layout of the premises
  • Make small adjustments to licensing hours (but not extend hours for the sale of alcohol)
  • Remove out of date or irrelevant conditions or add extra conditions
  • Add certain licensable activities (for example, adding recorded music to an existing premises licence if other activities are already allowed at that time)

Personal Licence Online Examinations dedicated premises licence team are able to complete your Premises Licence Minor Variation for £400+VAT

Our applications team will manage the entire applications process, completing all relevant documentation to the local licensing authority and prepare all notices.

  • Complete the application form and relevant consent documents.
  • Liase with all relevant authorities throughout the process to resolve any potential concerns and ensure the application process is as smooth as possible.
  • Provide compliant blue notices for display outside the premises throughout the notice period of the application.
  • Detail of any further steps you'll take to promote the four licensing objectives

**Please note our fee does not include the licensing authority’s minor variation application fee, which is a flat £89. No newspaper advertisement is required for minor variations. Please contact us for an accurate quotation.

How long does a minor variation take?

Minor variations are quick: the white notice is displayed for 10 working days and the council must determine the application within 15 working days – roughly three weeks end to end. If the council decides your change is not minor, the fee is lost and a full variation is needed, which is why our qualification check comes first.

Frequently asked questions

Can I extend alcohol hours with a minor variation?
No – never. Any extension of alcohol sale hours requires a full variation, whatever its size.

Can the police object?
The council consults the relevant responsible authorities, and there is no hearing stage – the council grants or refuses within 15 working days. If refused there is no appeal, but you can reapply or use the full variation route.

Does a minor variation change my DPS?
No – naming a new Designated Premises Supervisor is a separate application we can handle alongside. A new DPS needs a personal licence.