Run a pub

What You Need to Know About Licensing When Leasing a Pub

Taking on a pub is an exciting step — one that combines independence with community and business with hospitality. But before you open the doors and pull your first pint, there’s a crucial part of the process to understand: Pub licensing.

Licensing ensures pubs are run safely and responsibly. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about protecting your business, your customers and your reputation. Whether you’re new to the trade or simply exploring what’s involved, here’s what you should know before leasing a pub with guidance from Everards Brewery Leicester, a company that’s helped hundreds of publicans start strong.

Why Licensing Matters

Every pub that serves alcohol must have the right licences in place. These legal requirements safeguard both the public and the people running the business.

Licensing gives you permission to trade but it also gives you credibility. It shows that your pub operates to professional standards and respects local laws. When you partner with Everards Leicester, much of this groundwork is already handled, allowing you to focus on what makes your pub unique.

The Key Licences You’ll Need

Premises Licence

This licence covers the building itself. It allows the sale of alcohol and, in some cases, live entertainment or late-night refreshments. The licence is issued by your local council and sets specific conditions such as opening hours, safety measures and community impact.

When leasing a pub from Everards Brewery, the premises licence is already in place. You’ll simply become the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) — the person legally responsible for how alcohol is sold and served.

Personal Licence

This licence belongs to you, not the pub. It confirms you understand your responsibilities when selling alcohol. To qualify, you’ll need to:

  • Complete an accredited course (like the Award for Personal Licence Holders)

  • Pass a background check

  • Apply to your local authority

Everards supports tenants through this process, connecting them with training providers and ensuring the application runs smoothly.

Other Licences and Permissions

Depending on your plans, you may also need:

  • Music licences for live or recorded performances

  • Food hygiene certificates if serving meals

  • Temporary event notices for one-off events

  • Permissions for outdoor areas or signage changes

A good brewery partner will help you check what’s required early, saving time and complications later.

The Licensing Principles

All licensing is built on four main objectives under the Licensing Act 2003:

  1. Preventing crime and disorder

  2. Ensuring public safety

  3. Preventing public nuisance

  4. Protecting children from harm

These principles guide everything from staff training to operating hours. By keeping them front of mind, you create a pub that feels both responsible and welcoming — the foundation of a good reputation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Licensing isn’t difficult once you understand it but there are a few things that catch new publicans out:

  • Forgetting to update the DPS when management changes

  • Hosting events not covered by the premises licence

  • Missing renewal or inspection dates

  • Inadequate staff training on age checks and responsible service

Avoiding these mistakes comes down to organisation and communication. Everards’ business development team helps every tenant stay compliant, so there are no surprises once you’re trading.

The Brewery’s Role

Choosing to lease through Everards Brewery Leicester means you’re not tackling licensing alone. Our team offers:

  • Step-by-step advice on licence applications

  • Help liaising with local authorities

  • Access to accredited training

  • Ongoing compliance support once you’re open

It’s practical guidance, built from decades of experience helping independent pub operators succeed.

Building on the Basics

Licensing might feel like a technicality but it’s really the start of running a well-organised, respected business. Once the legal side is sorted, you can focus on the parts that make pub life rewarding — the people, the atmosphere and the chance to build something of your own.

For anyone thinking about taking on a pub, Everards Brewery offers not just premises but a partnership. Their expertise in licensing and operations means you can start with confidence and concentrate on creating a place your community will love.