Sex shops, sex cinemas and sexual entertainment venues
We control all sex establishments operating in the City. A sex establishment is defined as a sex shop, a sex cinema or a sexual entertainment venue. If you want to operate a sex shop, sex cinema or sexual entertainment venue in our area you need a licence from us to do so.
In order to promote transparency and consistency in the way that we carry out our licensing functions in relation to sex establishments, we have adopted a sex establishment licensing policy. This policy can be downloaded here:
pdf Sex Establishment Policy document (451 KB)
Apply online
We are currently unable to process online applications via the GOV.UK portal.
If you wish you submit an online application please:
- Make the required payment via the Council’s pay-it webpage, by choosing “Regulatory Services” and then “Tattoos/Acupuncture (other)” payment option.
- Email completed application forms (a link to the application form is available below), all accompanying documentation and proof of payment to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Please ensure that proof of payment is included with your application email.
Apply by post
To apply for a licence by post you need to complete an application form and send it to:
Worcester City Council Licensing, Worcestershire Regulatory Services, Wyre Forest House, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7WF
You can download an application form here:
document Sex Establishment application form (224 KB)
The current fees we charge to apply for a sex establishment can be found on our licensing fees and charges page.
Advertising the application
Your application must be advertised by displaying a public notice. The template for public notices is available here:
document Public Notice Template (25 KB)
Will tacit consent apply?
No. It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please get in touch
- Business - Why do business in Worcester
- Business Start Up Support
- Business Growth Support
- Retail Enhancement Grants
- Worcestershire Business Central Portal
- Business Rates
- Doing Business with Worcester City Council
- Business Continuity Management
- Licensing
- Alcohol and Entertainment
- Pavement Licence
- Lotteries and Gambling
- Taxis and Private Hire
- Street Trading
- Charitable Collections
- Busking
- Skin Piercing
- Animal Licences
- Sex Establishments
- Scrap Metal Sites and Collectors
- Caravan Sites
- Houses in Multiple Occupation
- Massage and Special Treatments
- Second Hand Goods Dealers
- Licensing Fees
- Licensing Surgeries
- Public Access
- Complaints and Compliments
- Trading Standards
- Guildhall Venue Bookings
- Occupational Health and Safety