Department for Culture Media and Sport
fee levels
The Licensing Act 2003 ("The Act") provides for fees to be payable to the licensing authority in respect of the discharge of their functions. The fee levels are set centrally by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, at a level to allow licensing authorities full cost recovery for the administration, inspection and enforcement of the new regime.
Centrally set fees removes the previous inconsistencies in fee levels and creates a fair and level playing field across England and Wales.
Following extensive consultation with local authorities, industry, clubs and other stakeholders about licence fees, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport announced the fee package on 20 January 2005. The Licensing Act 2003 (Fees) Regulations 2005 are available separately.
Ministers agreed to ensure from the outset that fee levels were set at the right level for businesses, community groups and for local authorities. An Independent Fees Review Panel has been set up for this purpose. If it proves necessary, the Secretary of State may alter fee levels by means of amending regulations.
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