A Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) is a policy that has been passed by a local authority (eg. District Council) relating to the sale, supply, or consumption of alcohol in that district.

A LAP can also impose additional requirements on an application for an alcohol licence.

Policies that are currently in force in some Districts cover things like:

  • Sensitive sites (e.g. schools and drug treatment centers) and their distance from the proposed licence site;
  • Exposure and mitigation measures toward sensitive classes of people;
  • Additional consultation requirements on an applicant;
  • Submission of additional documentation such as impact assessments;
  • Consideration of the outlet density in the area an application is made;
  • Security arrangements;
  • If there are freezes on granting licences in a particular area; and
  • Trading hours;

It is important that when an application is being made, or an objection is being raised, that the content of the applicable LAP is thoroughly considered, as it is a ground on which an application can be denied under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Additionally, where an application requires extra documents such as impact assessments or reports, it is crucial for an applicant that these are completed to a high standard.

If you are either applying for, or objecting to, a licence application, parties must understand what the criteria in the Act are, and how they apply to the situation. If you are uncertain of how a Local Alcohol Policy may affect your application or objection, it is wise to speak with a professional experienced in the area.

Leading law firms committed to helping clients cost-effectively will have a range of fixed-priced Initial Consultations to suit most people’s needs in quickly learning what their options are.  At Rainey Collins we have an experienced team who can answer your questions and put you on the right track.