Variation, transfer and DPS for the Licensing Act 2003
If you currently hold a premises licence, you can apply for the following services online.
Once your application has been submitted and paid for online, it's automatically sent to the responsible authorities, so there is no need for applicants to send in paper hard copies.
Variation of designated premises supervisor (DPS)
If the DPS at the premises changes, you must submit a vary to specify an individual as DPS form online.
The application must be accompanied by a consent form from the proposed DPS to show they consent to take on this responsible role. Please download the consent form (PDF, 13kb). The DPS must be signed by the individual and submitted with the application.
We advise you to read the guidance notes before applying.
If you're an agent or solicitor acting on behalf of the applicant, you may proceed with this application.
Minor variation
If you're making minor alterations to the internal layout of the premises only or wish to remove any conditions from the licence, a minor variation should be submitted.
Apply for a minor variation at your existing premises. After completing your application, you must download a copy of the public notice (PDF, 25kb) to display on the premises for 14 days. Please note this has to be printed on A4 white paper.
Variation of a premises licence
If you wish to vary the hours/types of the licensable activities or are making big structural changes to the licensed premises, you can apply online to vary your existing licence.
A notice of the application must be displayed on the premises for a period of 28 consecutive days starting on the day after the day on which the application is made to the licensing authority. You can download a copy of the public notice
(PDF, 169kb). You must also send a copy of the notice
(PDF, 169kb) to the local newspaper.
You must also ensure:
- the notice must be printed on A3 blue paper
- that the notice is properly displayed and clearly legible for the duration of the 28 day consultation period
- that you laminate the notice (if it's being displayed outside) so that it's weatherproof
- that you display the notice outside (otherwise shutters at your premise may obscure the notice)
- to advertise in a local newspaper within 10 working days of submitting the application
Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address or email licensing@southwark.gov.uk. They must be received by the service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date on the notice.
Transfer of a licence
If you take over ownership of a currently licensed business, you must submit the application to transfer online form. Download the consent to transfer document (PDF, 13kb). The previous applicant must sign the consent form. Read the guidance on right to work entitlements (PDF, 215kb).
Licence amendments
Occasionally there may be the need to change the details within your licence. You can:
- request a replacement licence
- change the address details of the existing DPS
- change your registered address
- change the name of your premises
If you're the licence holder and wish to request these changes, you can apply online.
Surrender a licence
If you need to surrender your existing licence, submit a notice to surrender form.
Interim authority notice
Where a licence lapses, in certain circumstances interested parties may (within 28 days of the licence lapsing) give to the council (as the licensing authority) an interim authority notice. This will reinstate the licence for a prescribed period.
You must submit an interim authority notice form.
You can read the guidance on right to work entitlements (PDF, 215kb).
Notification of an interest
Submit an online form for a notification of an interest under section 178.
Request to be removed as the DPS
If you want to request to be removed as DPS, you must submit an online form.
Useful information
- if you wish to join the Women’s Safety Charter initiative, sign up online
- if the premises will be selling food or drink then you must complete the food business registration form; for more details see registering a food business
- if the premises wishes to have tables and chairs outside their premises for the use of customers, you must apply for a licence
Page last updated: 09 April 2024
