Alcohol licensing

A variation of a premises licence is needed before you can change or delete any of the following details from the licence:

• any licence conditions
• any information contained within the operating plan
• any information contained or referred to in the licence
• the layout plan

Minor variations

The following are minor variations:

• any variation of the layout plan, if the variation does not result in any inconsistency with the operating plan
• any variation of the information contained in the licence relating to the premises manager (including a variation so as to substitute a new premises manager)
• where the name of the premises is disclosed in the premises licence, any change in that name
• where, under the operating plan contained in the licence, children or young persons are allowed entry to the premises, any variation reflecting any restriction or proposed restriction of the terms on which they are allowed entry to the premises
• a temporary or permanent reduction in the licensed hours which does not result in the premises opening any earlier or closing any later than stated in the premises licence and operating plan
• an increase in the minimum age at which children or young persons may be allowed onto the premises
• a reduction in the times at which children or young persons may be allowed onto the premises
• a restriction to the access of children or young persons to certain parts of the premises
• any reduction in the capacity of the premises whether resulting from a variation to the layout plan or otherwise
• any variation resulting in the cessation of the provision of live or recorded music at a decibel level exceeding 85 decibels
• any variation to provide that, when the premises are fully occupied, more customers are likely to be seated than standing

Major variations

A major variation is anything not included in the list of minor variations.

How to apply

Minor variations

You'll need to send us a completed minor variation application form.

Major variations

You'll need to send us a completed minor variation application form and an updated operating plan.

Application fee

The fee depends on the type of application you're making:

• minor variation to substitute the premises manager: £31
• other minor variations: £20
• major variations: fees are based on the rateable value of the premises, as listed on the major variation application form

Check all our licensing fees.

Visit the list of alcohol licensing fees

You can send a cheque with your application or you can call 01387 245922 to pay by debit or credit card.

After you apply

We consider all applications in line with local licensing policies and consult with Police Scotland.  For major variations, we also consult with the licensing standards officer, NHS and other statutory agencies. We also publish licensing notices so interested parties can submit objections or representations.

Major variation applications are considered by Dumfries and Galloway Licensing Board.  Minor variation applications are delegated to the clerk to the licensing board to determine. 

If an application is granted we'll send the amended licence shortly after.