Licence

Cinema licence (Northern Ireland)

You must be licensed to use premises as a cinema in Northern Ireland

Warning You cannot apply for this licence online. Contact your local council.

You must be licensed to use premises as a cinema in Northern Ireland.

How to apply

Contact your local district council for an application form.

You will need to provide information on:

  • your details
  • the premises
  • times of operation

You may also need to provide certificates to support your application such as:

  • electrical installation inspection report
  • emergency lighting
  • fire alarm
  • fire fighting equipment
  • insurance (enclosed pro forma only)
  • ceiling stability
  • battery check certificate (if applicable)

Your local council will seek comments from the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service on your application.

Your premises may also be inspected by the council.

Conditions

Terms and conditions may be attached to a licence by the council.

Fees and charges

You will be charged a fee for your application. The amount will be set by your local district council, and may vary according to the size of your premises.

Fines and penalties

You may be fined if you hold a film exhibition without a licence.