Closure of Premises Causing Disorder

Licensing Act 2003, s.169A (formerly s.161, as amended)

Warrant: No
Force: Yes
Notice: Yes

A senior police officer (inspector or above) may order the immediate closure of licensed premises for up to 24 hours where the officer reasonably believes there is, or is likely to be, disorder on or in the vicinity of the premises, or the premises are causing a nuisance to the public as a result of noise. The closure must be reviewed by a licensing authority as soon as reasonably practicable.

Conditions

The officer must be of at least inspector rank
There must be reasonable belief of disorder or nuisance from noise
The premises must be licensed under the Licensing Act 2003

Limitations

The closure order must be reviewed by the licensing authority as soon as reasonably practicable
A full review hearing must be held if the closure order is extended beyond 24 hours
The premises holder may make representations to the licensing authority against the closure

Last updated 24 September 2026