Entertainment Licences and Permissions

If you are organising an event involving entertainment which is open to the public you may need a licence.

The impact of the Coronavirus (COVID -19) has had a significant impact on the processing of licence applications. If you require to communicate with the Licensing Team, please do so by email to the following address:-

licensingservices@westlothian.gov.uk

Email enquiries will be prioritised and responded to on a priority/urgent basis.

We are working to identify temporary changes to licensing processes. Further updates will be provided on this page as soon as possible.

If you are an event organiser you should note that when possible applicants will be able to email amended applications for events which have been postponed due to Covid-19 as long as the details of the event remain exactly the same and only the event date is changing, any other changes to event details will require a new application to be submitted in the usual manner. 

If your event involves any of the type of entertainment contained within the West Lothian Council's

If you are organising an event in a public place and this will also involve the selling (e.g. stalls selling food and other items) or the provision of services for money (e.g. face painting) you may also require additional licences such as street traders licences or market operator licences.

If your event involves a public procession or parade you require to give notice of it to the Council.

If your event involves the sale of alcohol you will also need an occasional licence if the alcohol is not being sold from a licensed premises

If your event involves a public charitable collection you may require a permit from the Council.

If your event involves the setting off of fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am you may require to apply for a fireworks dispensation.

More information can be obtained from the Licensing Team on 01506 281632 or by emailing licensingservices@westlothian.gov.uk

Public Entertainment Licence
West Lothian Council operates a public entertainment licensing scheme (which includes firework displays) and is administered by the Council's Licensing Team. The Team are able to provide general guidance on the scheme but cannot assist you to complete your application form or provide legal advice on whether a licence is required.
Theatre Licence
In terms of the Theatres Act 1968 theatre premises require to be licensed by their local authority. The Theatres Act 1968 will be repealed on 21 January 2021 when all theatre licences will cease to have effect. The council will consider whether theatre licensing should be included in public entertainment licensing under Section 41 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. The theatre licensing scheme is administered by the Council's Licensing Team.
Cinema Licence
In terms of the Cinemas Act 1985 cinema premises require to be licensed by their local authority. This licensing scheme is administered by the Council's Licensing Team.
Fireworks Dispensation
In terms of the Fireworks (Scotland) Regulations 2004 the use of an adult firework (as defined in the 2004 Regulations) between the hours of 11pm and 7am is prohibited. However, professional organisers or operators of firework displays can apply for dispensations from this prohibition.
Indoor Sports Entertainment Licence
West Lothian Council operates an Indoor Sports Entertainment licensing scheme which is administered by the Council's Licensing Team. The Team are able to provide general guidance on the scheme but cannot assist you to complete your application form or provide legal advice on whether a licence is required. You should seek legal advice from a solicitor or advice centre if you are unsure as to whether you require a licence.