Sex establishments

Sex establishment licensing in Watford

Introduction

Watford Borough Council has adopted Schedule 3 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, as amended by the Policing and Crime Act 2009, to regulate sex establishments - including sex shops, sex cinemas and sexual entertainment venues - within the borough.

These premises are lawful businesses under national legislation, and the Council's role to regulate them in a way that ensures public protection, complaince with the law, and consistency with local policy.

Our Sex Establishment Licensing Policy (2023 to 2026) sets out how applications are determined, the number of of such premises considered appropriate in different localities, and how the Council balances the operation of legitimate businesses with the protection of local communities.

Current Position

At present, Watford Borough Council is not accepting any new applications for sex establishment licences.

This position is consistent with the Council’s current policy, which limits the number of sexual entertainment venues within the borough to one, and restricts sex shops and similar premises in all other localities.

The policy was reviewed and renewed in July 2023 following public consultation, and remains in effect until July 2026.

During this period, the existing licensed premises continue to operate in accordance with the law and licence conditions, but no new licences are being granted or considered.

Policy Summary

The Council’s policy:

  • Recognises that sex establishments are a lawful part of the leisure and retail industries but must be appropriately located and well managed.
  • Sets a cap of one sexual entertainment venue within the borough (currently licensed at 9 Market Street, Watford).
  • Specifies that all other localities are considered inappropriate for such venues because of their residential, retail, or community character.
  • Requires annual licence renewals for existing operators and provides for inspection and enforcement in line with the Regulators’ Code and Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

The Council does not consider applications on moral grounds and determines all matters in accordance with statutory provisions and policy criteria.

Note

The Council will review this policy again before July 2026. Any proposal to amend the limit or accept new applications would be subject to public consultation and consideration by the Licensing Committee.

Further Information

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