Make a change to a Premises Licence

You can make changes to an existing Premises Licence. You can transfer the licence to a new owner or change the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS).

If you've purchased a business that already has a licence, you must apply to transfer that licence to yourself or your company to benefit from that licence.

You may also need to nominate a new Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) if the licence permits the sale of alcohol.

Who can apply to transfer a Premises Licence?

The new owner must complete the application form to transfer the licence.

However, the existing licence holder must complete a consent form for you to include in your application.

How do I apply to transfer a premises licence?

To apply to transfer a Premises Licence:

1. Complete the Premises Licence transfer application form below.
2. You'll also need the following along with your completed application form:
   • A completed consent to transfer form completed by the original licence holder or an explanation included on the application form as to why consent can't be provided.
   • The original Premises Licence or explanation as to why the original licence can't be returned.
   • Proof of your right to work. What you can use as proof is detailed on the transfer application form.
   • The transfer fee of £23.00, which should be included as a cheque to us. Or you can pay by credit or debit over the phone or in person using the details on this page
3. You need to send copies of your completed form and accompanying documents to both:
   • Rochdale Borough Council: by email or post using the contact details on this page.
   • Greater Manchester Police: by email to rochdale.partnershipteam@gmp.police.uk or by post to Divisional HQ, The Holme, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AG.
4. If the licence being transferred allows the sale of alcohol or late night refreshments, you also need to send a copy of your completed form and accompanying documents to Home Office Immigration by email to alcohol@homeoffice.gov.uk.
5. The police, and if applicable the Home Office Immigration team, have 14 days from receiving your application to comment or object to your application to transfer the licence.
   • If we don't receive any objections: your licence will be transferred immediately unless you request a specific transfer date on your application.
   • If we receive an objection: we'll notify you of the comments and arrange a hearing to consider the objections.

Download the Premises Licence transfer application form

Download the consent to transfer form