Licensing
You will need a licence if your event includes any of the following:
- alcohol sales
- food sales after 11pm
- promotion outside your neighbourhood
- entry fees
You can apply for a temporary event notice and find out more about licenses through the council’s licensing service.
Licensing (alcohol / music / food)
If you need to close a road for your event, you will need to apply to our Highways team at least 12 weeks prior to the event, and a fee will be payable. To discuss your requirements please phone Highways on 01582 510333. All events must be covered by a valid Public Liability Insurance policy, with a minimum of £5m cover. If your event involved outside contractors, they must have their own insurance. You will need to talk to an insurance company to arrange this and there will be a cost.
If you are holding an event where alcohol is available, music (live or recorded) and/or dancing is provided as entertainment, or food out of hours is provided (11pm to 5am), you may need a temporary event licence. You will also need a temporary event licence if you are arranging a charitable collection or there is gaming/gambling.
Some licences can take at least three months to process, and you may have to pay a fee.
Licensing
Telephone: 01582 546040
Email: licensing@luton.gov.uk
Public entertainment licence
If you plan to provide entertainment such as public music, singing, dancing or indoor sporting displays at a venue, you may need a public entertainment licence. These activities are regulated under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.
When a licence is required
A licence is needed when music or performance is a main part of the event. This can include anything from recorded music in a café to a large outdoor concert. Some activities are exempt, including:
- music that is incidental to an event, such as at fetes, bazaars or sports events
- music or singing in a place of religious worship
- private events such as weddings and birthday parties
Premises with an existing drinks licence, such as pubs or bars, may play recorded music or host up to two live performers (music and singing only) without a public entertainment licence. A licence is required where recorded music and live performers are combined, such as karaoke.
Inspections and consultation
Before a licence is granted:
- the fire service must inspect the premises
- an environmental health officer must also carry out an inspection
- the police must be consulted, as required by law
Types of licences
Most venues that provide regular entertainment will hold a full licence, which must be renewed annually. Venues hosting a single, occasional event may apply for an occasional licence instead.
All new licence applications must include an acoustic report prepared by a qualified acoustic consultant.
How to apply
Applications for a public entertainment licence must be submitted at least 28 days before the planned event.
You can view the legislation, obtain an application form and request a copy of the council’s standard licence conditions at the council offices.
Apply for a public entertainment licence
Theatre licence
Licensing for public performances of stage plays
Public performances of stage plays must be licensed under the Theatres Act 1968. A “play” includes any dramatic performance involving speech, singing or physical action.
When a licence is needed
Alongside purpose‑built theatres, which hold an annual licence, many community halls and similar venues also stage performances. These venues must apply for an occasional licence if they host plays, even if the events take place only for a few days or during set periods.
Inspections and consultation
Before a licence can be issued:
- the fire service will inspect the premises
- an environmental health officer will carry out an assessment
- the police will be consulted as part of the licensing process
How to view the legislation and apply
You can view the relevant legislation at the council offices, where you can also request an application form and a copy of the standard licensing conditions.
Apply for a temporary event notice
Luton Music Service
Luton Music Service works in partnership with schools to deliver high‑quality music education in line with the government’s national plan for music education.
The national plan for music education
The national plan aims to ensure all children and young people can:
- learn to sing, play an instrument and make music with others
- develop their musical interests and talents, including pathways into professional music
Music is recognised as an essential part of a broad and balanced education. Learning and creating music supports brain development and helps build skills such as language, coordination, emotional understanding and teamwork.
What the service provides
Luton Music Service offers a structured programme that supports children and young people from Early Years through to Sixth Form. This includes clear pathways for those who wish to pursue music to the highest level.
Further information
Use the email address below for further information.
Email: www.lutonmusicservice.co.uk