Do i need an entertainment licence etc for a private party in a private field?

hi,

im going to be holding a private birthday party in a private field in a village for around 100-130 people. There will be live bands and music from the afternoon until late at night.

Ive read about the CJA (joy) and that you can get TENs (temporary entertainment notices), do i need one seeing as its a private party?

I'm afraid there's not quite enough information in your question to provide a definite answer. It depends on whose field it is, who's organising the event and who (if anyone) is paying for anything. I'll do my best to answer though. I'm assuming there's going to be booze there as well as the music - alcohol and entertainment are covered in slightly different ways.

Alcohol - If you provide the alcohol yourself (or people bring their own) then no licence is needed. If there's a cash bar or a general admission charge for guests then you'll need a licence because you'll be selling it. Also, if you hire caterers to supply the alcohol, even if they give it away for free, then they're effectively selling it to you - meaning a licence is needed.

Music & dancing - you only need a licence if you're charging guests and looking to make a profit. If it's your field and you're not looking for a profit then you can do what you like. You can still ask for contributions to cover your costs but I wouldn't if you're giving away alcohol as you might make that licensable.

However, if the field is being hired out by someone involved with the organisation of the party generally and they're charging for it then a licence will be needed.

I hope this helps. If you're unsure then it'd be best to speak to your local Council.

check with your local council / town hall as they will be the people to apply through if you do, councils vary, I know where i live i would need to apply.

IF IT IS PURELY PRIVATE YOU WILL REQUIRE NOTHING ONLY THE PERMISSION TO USE THE FIELD. IT WILL BE JUST A PRIVATE PARTY AND NO PERMISSIONS APART FROM THE FIELD WILL BE REQUIRED.

IN EFFECT YOU HAVEIN A VERY LARGE BIRTHDAY PARTY AND NO LAWS CAN PREVENT IT.

If it's a public field, like a recreation ground, or you own the field, and it's not in public view, and out of ear shot. Then no one will know anyway. If you apply for a licence it's alerting them to the fact that you're having the party. Whereas if you don't it'll be all over by the time they hear of it.

Yes.(But most of the time, we just ignore the law, because no one enforces it!!!)