Licensing Act 2003 (Permitted Temporary Activities) (Amendment) Order 2026

The Government is to increase the number of Temporary Event Notices (TENs) that can be used at individual premises in England and Wales, giving pubs, hospitality businesses, community organisations and other venues greater flexibility to hold temporary events.

In a Written Statement to Parliament on 10 September 2026, Home Office Minister Sarah Jones confirmed that the Government is laying the Licensing Act 2003 (Permitted Temporary Activities) (Amendment) Order 2026.

Subject to Parliamentary approval, the changes will come into force on 1 January 2027 and will increase the maximum number of TENs that can be given in respect of a premises from 15 to 20 in any calendar year. The maximum number of days on which temporary licensable activities can take place will also increase from 21 to 26 days.

The higher limits were previously introduced on a temporary basis during the COVID-19 period. The Government says that experience demonstrated the value of providing premises users with additional flexibility and has therefore decided to make the increased limits permanent.

The change is intended to support local economies, high streets and community activity by making it easier for businesses and organisations to organise events without requiring a variation to their premises licence or a new premises licence.

Importantly, the increase in permitted TENs will not remove the existing safeguards under the Licensing Act 2003. The four licensing objectives will continue to apply, and responsible authorities, including the police and environmental health authorities, will retain the ability to object to TENs where there are concerns about the promotion of those objectives.

The Government’s decision represents a significant increase in the flexibility available to premises operators. For businesses that regularly rely on TENs for seasonal events, festivals, extended opening hours or other temporary activities, the additional five notices and five permitted days each year could provide considerably more scope to operate outside the terms of their existing premises licence.

The changes will apply to England and Wales and are expected to take effect from 1 January 2027.