The government has introduced a simplified, streamlined process under the Business and Planning Act 2020 for establishments such as cafes, restaurants and bars to apply for a licence to place furniture on the highway.
This will support them to operate safely by providing additional outdoor seating areas while social distancing measures remain in place.
If granted these new pavement licences will allow businesses to place furniture such as tables and chairs on the highway for customers to use.
Please refer to the government guidance for further information on pavement licences.
Apply for a pavement licence
Please familiarise yourself with Blackpool Council’s pavement licence policy before applying.
The fee for a pavement licence under the Business and Planning Act is £25.
If approved, licences will (effective 22 July 2022) normally be granted until 30 September 2023. The provision has now been extended into 2024, subject to a new application being made. This will not be deemed a renewal.
You will need to submit the following supporting documents with your application:
- Plan of the proposed area to be used
- Photographs or a brochure of the proposed furniture
- Copy of your public liability insurance
On receipt of an acceptable application we will contact you to take your payment by debit/credit card.
You must then advertise the application by displaying a site notice at the premises for 7 days.
Alcohol consumption and Blackpool's PSPO
Please note. If you aim to permit the consumption of alcohol in your proposed pavement café area, Blackpool is subject to a Public Space Protection Order which prohibits drinking alcohol in any public place located within the restricted area.
The pavement and alcohol licensing provisions in the act do not override or suspend the PSPO as confirmed by the government guidance.
If you would like your customers to be able to consume alcohol outside on the pavement or “off” the premises, you will need to apply for a Street café licence under section 115E of the Highways Act 1980 instead.
If you are unsure if your premises falls within the area covered by the PSPO please contact us.
Current applications
No applications pending