Policing.uk

Warrant to Enter and Search Premises for Controlled Drugs

Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, s.23(3)

  • Warrant: Yes
  • Force: No
  • Notice: No

A justice of the peace may grant a warrant authorising a constable to enter premises, by force if necessary, and search the premises and persons found on them, and seize and detain anything found that may be evidence of an offence under the Act. This is the standard drugs premises warrant.

Conditions

  • Application made to a justice of the peace on sworn information
  • Reasonable grounds to suspect an offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 has been or is being committed on the premises
  • Warrant must specify the premises

Limitations

  • Power under the warrant extends to persons found on the premises
  • Cannot be executed more than once
  • Officer in charge of search must identify themselves to occupier and produce the warrant

Last updated 24 September 2026