Premises licences on the Wirral are issued by Wirral Council under the Licensing Act 2003. Use this checklist to help you stay compliant with the council's licensing requirements.
1. Application requirements
- The right form
Have you completed the correct application form for a new licence, renewal, variation or transfer?
- A clear plan of the premises
Have you included a plan showing the layout, outdoor areas, entrances and exits?
- DPS details
Have you provided the details of your Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)?
- Fees
Have you paid the correct fees to Wirral Council?
2. Licensing objectives
Your premises must promote the four licensing objectives:
- Prevent crime and disorder
- Ensure public safety
- Prevent public nuisance
- Protect children from harm
Show how you will meet each of these objectives in your operating plan and risk assessments.
3. Operating plan
- Crowds and capacity
Include detailed procedures for managing crowds and capacity.
- Security and emergencies
Cover security, CCTV, incident response and emergency plans.
- Noise, alcohol and behaviour
Set out how you will manage noise, alcohol and anti-social behaviour.
- Trained staff
Make sure staff are trained and aware of their responsibilities.
4. Door supervisors for bars
- SIA-licensed door supervisors
You must have SIA-licensed door supervisors on duty at all times when your licence requires it.
- The right numbers
Make sure the number of door supervisors suits your risk assessment and expected customer numbers.
- Clearly identifiable
Door supervisors must be clearly identifiable, with their SIA badge on show and in uniform.
- Accurate records
Keep accurate records of door supervisor duties, shifts and incident logs.
- Properly trained
Make sure they are trained in conflict management, de-escalation and emergency procedures.
Door supervisors are essential to maintain safety, reduce disorder and meet your licensing conditions.
5. CCTV & security
- Coverage
CCTV must cover key areas: entrances, exits, the bar, the dance floor and external areas.
- Retention
Footage should be kept for the period your licence requires, usually 31 days.
- Maintenance
Equipment should be well maintained and fully working.
- Signage
Display signs telling customers that CCTV is in use.
6. Staff & training
- Licensing training
All staff should be trained on licensing conditions, age verification, refusals and incident logging.
- Keep it current
Refresh training regularly and keep records.
7. Additional considerations
- Local conditions
Check for any local conditions set by Wirral Council.
- An up-to-date DPS
Make sure you have a current Designated Premises Supervisor in place.
- Paperwork on site
Keep documents on site, such as your licence, plans and training records.
- Regular reviews
Review your licence regularly and tell Wirral Council about any changes, such as a new DPS, layout or hours.
Get it right. Stay compliant. Keep your business running smoothly.
This guide is general information to help you prepare. It is not legal advice. Always check the latest requirements with the relevant authority. Last reviewed October 2026.
