The council, in its role as the local licensing authority, is required to review and renew its Licensing Policy to set out how it will carry out its licensing functions.
The policy must be reviewed every five years. The current policy expires this year and has been reviewed and updated to cover the next five-year period, up to 2031.
The scope and content of the Licensing Policy are shaped by the Licensing Act 2003 and statutory guidance. The review ensures the policy remains up to date, effective and aligned with the council’s statutory responsibilities. It also provides clear guidance for applicants, licence holders, responsible authorities and local residents, and supports a fair, transparent and consistent approach to licensing across the district.
Under the Act, the council is responsible for administering and regulating licensable activities within its area.
These responsibilities include:
- The determination and granting of premises licences and club premises certificates for the sale and supply of alcohol, the provision of regulated entertainment, and the provision of late-night refreshment
- The review, variation, suspension, or revocation of licences where appropriate
- The issue of personal licences to individuals authorising the sale of alcohol
- Enforcing licensing legislation and promoting the four licensing objectives:
- the prevention of crime and disorder
- public safety
- the prevention of public nuisance
- the protection of children from harm
The Draft Statement of Licensing Policy for 2026-2031 (PDF, 3.85MB) is currently out for consultation. If you would like to comment, please email licensing@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk before 4pm on Sunday 30 August 2026.
Alternatively, write to Licensing, Folkestone & Hythe District Council, Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2QY. Printed versions of the draft statement can be made available on request by calling 01303 853000.