New licence for going alfresco

Businesses serving food and drink outside premises must apply for council permission

- By STAFF REPORTER

GOVERNMENT legislation means any business within the district wanting to provide tables and chairs for food and drink on the pavement outside their premises must apply for a pavement licence from Derbyshire Dales District Council.

Following government legislation in April 2024, the district council announced new pavement licensing arrangements for businesses with outdoor seating on the pavement (public highway) outside their premises.

The licence allows businesses to place removable furniture outside their premises, to sell or serve food or drink, and/or allow the space to be used by people for the consumption of food or drink sold by the business.

An alcohol licence is also required if alcohol is being sold.

These new arrangements replace temporary pavement licence measures introduced during the Covid 19 pandemic.