Gaming Machine Permits (Amusements with Prizes) and Lotteries and AmusementsLicensing Act 2003

As a result of the Licensing Act 2003, a number of changes are being made to the arrangements for obtaining permits for gaming machines in pubs and other licensed premises.

The changes concern the following permits:

Gaming machines - Section 34 permits issued under the Gaming Act 1968. (AWP machines)all cash machines, maximum stake of 30p and maximum prize of £25. This type is normally found on alcohol licensed premises or arcades with an over 18 door policy.

Amusements with prizes - Section 16 permits issued under the Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976 (grant of permits for commercial amusements with prizes) on alcohol licensed premises.

From the 24th November 2005 the Local Authories Licensing Section will be responsible for the grant/renewal of Section 34 (1) permits.

Only alcohol licensed premises which have a bar for serving drinks to customers on the premises can apply. This means only those hotels and restaurants with a bar can apply for a sec 34 permit, premises that only serve alcohol with food cannot apply.

Club Premises (that supply alcohol) under the Licensing Act 2003 will continue to apply to the Licensing Justices.

All existing Section 34 permits for alcohol licensed permits will remain valid and continue to run in tandem with new Premises Licences granted under the Licensing Act 2003.   

If the name on the Premises Licence changes after 24^th November (e.g. a new person takes over) any existing Sec 34 permits linked to the premises licence will lapse.  The new premises licence holder must make a new application for a Sec 34 permit to the Licensing Authority for the permit to be issued in the new premises licence holders name. (even if it has not expired).

Permits will continue to be issued for a period of 3 years; the fee for these permits will be the same as the current fee which is £32, (for grant or renewal) of permits.  Applicants who submit their applications one month prior to the expiry of their old permit will have the benefit of their existing permit being extending till the LA has resolved the application.