Tips for licensed premises this festive season

The festive season is a busy and potentially challenging time for licensed premises. Increased footfall, larger crowds, and a higher volume of alcohol sales all bring additional responsibilities for venue owners and staff. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure a safe, compliant, and enjoyable festive period for both patrons and staff. Here are essential tips for licensed premises festive season success.

1. Know Your Premises Licence

Your premises licence is the foundation of legal compliance. All managers and key staff should:

• Understand licence conditions, operating hours, and licensable activities.
• Review non-standard trading times during the festive period.
• Apply for Temporary Event Notices (TENS) early if planning extra events.

Being confident in licence requirements helps you avoid legal pitfalls and ensures smooth operations during busy nights.

2. Train and Support Your Staff

Your staff are the frontline of your business. Well-trained teams help prevent incidents and protect your venue:

• Recognise intoxication and refuse service responsibly.
• Encourage responsible drinking among patrons.
• Implement the Ask for Angela Scheme to support vulnerable customers.
• Keep training records up to date to demonstrate responsible management if issues arise.

Staff confidence and knowledge are essential, especially during high-pressure festive nights.

3. Security and Crowd Management

Ensuring the safety of patrons is crucial. Key steps include:

• Hire licensed door supervisors to manage intoxicated customers and enforce entry policies.
• Carry out security risk assessments for high-traffic events, including Christmas lights switch-ons or office party nights.
• Participate in local Pubwatch schemes to collaborate with authorities and other venues.

Proactive planning reduces risks and helps your venue run smoothly.

4. Preventing Drink Spiking

Drink spiking is a serious concern during busy periods. To mitigate risks:

• Offer drink covers and keep drinks in sight.
• Display safety reminders around the venue.
• Review search policies and ensure staff understand them.

Safety measures protect patrons and maintain your venue’s reputation.

5. CCTV and Surveillance

A well-maintained CCTV system is an essential tool for compliance and safety:

• Ensure cameras are operational and recording clearly.
• Keep CCTV logs even if not legally required.
• Check that festive decorations do not obscure cameras.
• Use footage to support incident reporting if needed.

Visible and functional CCTV also reassures customers and staff.

6. Manage Noise Effectively

The festive season often brings live music, DJs, and louder crowds. To stay compliant:

• Review and update your noise management plan.
• Conduct regular perimeter checks and monitor noise levels.
• Maintain good communication with neighbours to prevent complaints.

Proactive noise management can prevent enforcement action and maintain community goodwill.

7. Handle Intoxicated Customers Responsibly

It is illegal to sell alcohol to someone who is drunk or allow them to be served:

• Ensure staff feel supported in refusing service.
• Use clear policies to manage difficult situations confidently.

Responsible alcohol service protects both your customers and your business.

8. Promote Responsible Drinking and Avoid Drink-Driving

While you cannot control customer behaviour outside your premises, you can encourage safe practices:

• Provide taxi numbers or call taxis for patrons when needed.
• Encourage moderation and responsible drinking through staff communication and signage.

These measures demonstrate your commitment to safety and community responsibility.

The festive season can be one of the most profitable periods for licensed premises, but it also comes with unique challenges. By following these festive pub tips and Christmas licensing tips, venues can stay compliant, protect customers, and create a safe, enjoyable environment that encourages repeat business.