Published:
Q: I am a Personal Licence Holder and also DPS at a small bar that I own and operate. I am looking to obtain another licensed premises and so wondered if it would be possible for me to be DPS at both or if I would need to go to the additional expense of employing a manager (to be DPS) at the new premises?
A: There is no requirement for the DPS to be present at the licensed premises at all times and so it is possible for you to be named as DPS on more than one (or even more than two) Premises Licences should you wish to be.
However, in being DPS you have a responsibility to be in day to day control of the premises, ensuring not only that the operation of the premises complies with the conditions on its premises licence (which will likely be different for each venue), but that the licensing objectives are promoted and licensing law is followed.
Whether you are in day to day control of the premises could be impacted by a number of factors, including the distance between the premises in question and also the time you spend at each premises – for example, it would not look good if you were spending all of your time supporting the new venture.
If you do decide to go ahead and become DPS at both premises it is important that your time is not split too thinly, although this may depend on the relative risks posed by both businesses (one may be a late bar, the other a restaurant, for example). If you haven’t already I advise that other members of staff obtain a Personal Licence, thus giving you flexibility and reassurance at both sites.
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