Selective licensing

Selective licensing scheme

We have introduced a selective licensing scheme for properties in:

• Kemptown
• Moulsecoomb and Bevendean
• Queens Park
• Whitehawk and Marina

If you're a landlord with a property in one of these wards, you'll need to apply for a selective licence if you are renting to:

• one occupier
• 2 occupiers 
• a family 

The scheme also applies to single-storey properties (flats or bungalows) with 3 or 4 unrelated occupiers that don’t fall under the criteria of the Mandatory or Additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) schemes.

The selective licensing scheme runs from 2 September 2024 to 1 September 2029. The licence will run from the application date until the scheme's end.

View a map of the selective licensing area.

Selective licensing scheme interim review

Read the selective licensing scheme interim review.

Selective licensing designations

We are expanding selective licensing with the designation of a further scheme covering Central Hove and Regency wards.

The designation made on 6 July 2026 will come into force on 20 October 2026. You can read the Notice of Designation of Areas for Selective Licencing, which focuses on addressing poor property conditions in the designated areas.

We recommend that all landlords, managing agents or tenants within the designated area of Brighton & Hove City Council obtain advice to find out if their property is affected by the designation, by contacting our Private Sector Housing Team.

Alternatively, you can attend one of our online Question and Answer sessions. Landlords and managing agents can find out more about Brighton & Hove City Council's Selective Licensing Scheme. These sessions provide guidance on who needs to apply for a licence, the documentation required, and how to remain compliant once licensed. There will also be the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the scheme. Find the full details, check availability and book a session.

Read the Designation Notice covering the existing scheme which focuses on both poor housing conditions and deprivation.

Failure to comply with licensing requirements may result in enforcement action, including civil penalties up to £40,000 or prosecution. For further information, please see our Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy.

Check if a property has a licence

If you want to know if a property has a licence, you can check our property licensing register.

We cannot give out details or personal information, but we may be able to let you know if a licence has expired, or we have received a new application.

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