You need this licence if you propose to operate a business for the sale of food (ie all things edible), to the public, between the hours of 11pm and 5am.
North Ayrshire Council has a policy of only granting licences open up to 1am.
If you close at, or before, 11pm you do not need this Licence.
How to apply
Complete and return a Late Hours Catering Licence application (Word, 595kb).
Fees
All fees can be found on our licence fees webpage.
If your application is refused, or granted for less than you applied for, the fee is not refunded or reduced. Cheques made payable to 'North Ayrshire Council'.
What happens next?
When we have received your Application and fee:
- you will have to display a 'Notice of display' at or near the Premises, so that the public can see what you want
- your application will be advertised on this website to allow members of the public to make any objections or representations
- we will inspect premises to make sure they meet the required standards
If there are no objections or representations, and if your Application is within the council's policy, the application can be granted under 'delegated powers'. This means that the decision to grant the Licence is made by a designated officer of the Council, rather than wait for the next Licensing Committee meeting.
If there is any adverse comment, the application must be referred to a Hearing of the Committee. You will be told about the Hearing and will be able to make representations in favour of your application.
How long does the licence last?
If granted, this licence lasts for 3 years from the date of issue. The licence can be renewed.
If you want to renew the Licence, you should apply before the current Licence expires. If you do this, you can continue trading after the expiry date stated in the licence for as long as your application is awaiting a decision by the council.
Please note: We follow National Fraud Initiative guidelines to protect against fraud.