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Licensing policies


Statement of Licensing Policy

The Licensing Policy aims to ensure a consistent approach for licensing within Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and promotes fairness, equal treatment and proportionality. It is updated and published every five years.

The policy is to help officers and members in reaching a decision on a particular application, setting out those matters that will normally be taken into account.

In addition the policy seeks to provide clarity for applicants and residents to enable them to understand the objectives being promoted and the matters that will be considered in granting licences. Find out more by downloading the policy below.

Gambling Act Statement

The Licensing Partnership is required by the Gambling Act to publish a statement of the principles which we propose to apply when exercising our functions, in relation to gambling licences. The statement must be published every three years.

Notice of intention to publish

A notice of intention to publish has been issued ahead of the publication of a new Gambling Act Statement for 2025 - 2028.

View the notice

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy

The Hackney Carriage and Private hire policy aims to ensure a consistent approach for the taxi and private hire trade within Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and promotes fairness, equal treatment and proportionality. It is updated and published every three years.

Sex Establishment

The Sex Establishment policy aims to ensure a consistent approach for licensing sex establishments within Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and promotes fairness, equal treatment and proportionality. It is updated and published every three years.

Film Classification Policy and Procedure

Films that are to be shown to a public audience must be given a classification rating. If you’re a film maker or promoter, you can apply to the following:

Applicants are advised to read the council’s policy below before submitting the application form.