Sex Establishments

To run a sex shop - i.e. any premises selling sex toys, books or videos - you may need a licence from the local authority. To run a venue where explicit films are shown to members of the public, you also need a licence from the local authority. However, you may apply to the local authority requesting them to waive the requirement of a licence.

Apply Online

Apply for a sex shop and cinema licence (Opens in a New Window)

Change a sex shop and cinema licence (Opens in a New Window)


Are You Eligible?

An applicant:

  • must be at least 18 years old

  • must not be disqualified from holding a licence

  • must have been resident in the UK at least six months immediately before the application or, if a body corporate, must be incorporated in the UK

  • must not have been refused the grant or renewal of a licence for the premises in question within the last 12 months unless the refusal has been reversed on appeal

How We Process Your Application

Your application will be processed within 3 months. 

If you do not receive the license, you will be not be able to trade.

Find out more about Appeals and Complaints

Regulations

View the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (Opens in a New Window)

Privacy Notice

View the Council's Privacy Notice


Contact
Licensing
tel: 0115 917 3241