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Licensing Act 2003 – Exemption

Exemption of Morris dancing (and similar) from the Licensing Act 2003 as amended:

There are a number of exemptions that mean that a licence (or other authorisation) under the 2003 Act is not required. These include:

  • Morris dancing (or similar) including any live music or playing of recorded music as an integral part of a performance of Morris dancing, or similar activity.
  • A spontaneous performance of music, singing or dancing (such as a pub session after dancing).

As a result of de-regulatory changes that have amended the 2003 Act, no licence is required for the following activities:

  • Plays: no licence is required for performances between 08.00 and 23.00 on any day, provided that the audience does not exceed 500.
  • Dance: no licence is required for performances between 08.00 and 23.00 on any day, provided that the audience does not exceed 500
  • Live music: no licence permission is required for a performance of unamplified live music between 08.00 and 23.00 on any day, on any premises or for a performance of amplified live music between 08.00 and 23.00 on any day on premises authorised to sell alcohol for consumption on those premises, provided that the audience does not exceed 500.

Please note that this guidance does not constitute legal advice. Teams are ultimately responsible for ensuring that their activities stay within the law.

Sources:


For an easy read about the background to the Exemption, see: Tradfolk’s article ‘Celebrating 20 years since Morris dancing was rescued from the Licensing Act’ – James Merryclough digs into the origins of the JMO Day of Dance, reading countless parliamentary bills so you don’t have to.


Last updated: October 2023

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