Which areas are covered
| Scheme | Area | Runs | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selective licensing | Parts of Stoneygate (East Cluster); Westcotes, Fosse, Braunstone Park & Rowley Fields (West Cluster); and Saffron (South Cluster) wards | 10 October 2022 to 9 October 2027 | £1,290 (£1,032 on application, £258 when the licence is issued) |
| Mandatory HMO licensing | Whole city (HMOs with 5 or more people forming 2 or more households) | not published to no end date | £900 |
Check your street on the council map →
Do I need a licence?
- An HMO with five or more people forming two or more households: yes, mandatory HMO licence.
- Any privately rented home inside a selective licensing area: yes, selective licence.
How to apply and what it costs
Apply on the Leicester City Council website. Published fees: Selective licensing £1,290 (£1,032 on application, £258 when the licence is issued); Mandatory HMO licensing £900.
Penalties for letting without a licence
Leicester's selective licensing enforcement policy allows a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offence as an alternative to prosecution, and the council will normally consider applying for a rent repayment order after a civil penalty.
What else to know about Leicester City Council
- You need a 'fit and proper person' declaration dated within the last three months before you can apply for a Leicester selective licence.
- A discount may be available if you apply within six months of buying a property in the licensing area.
- The council only issues a licence once satisfied the property is competently managed and free from Category 1 hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.
- Licence conditions require mains-powered, interlinked fire detection and alarm systems.
- The council offers help with applications on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 2.45pm, booked by emailing selectivelicensing@leicester.gov.uk.
- No refund is given if you sell the property, withdraw the application or are refused planning permission during the process.
Landlord compliance checklist
Licensing is one part of compliance. Use the compliance checklist, and if you’re starting a tenancy, the compliance pack.
Frequently asked questions
Does Leicester City Council have selective licensing?
Yes, in these areas: Parts of Stoneygate (East Cluster); Westcotes, Fosse, Braunstone Park & Rowley Fields (West Cluster); and Saffron (South Cluster) wards. Check your street on the council’s map.
Does Leicester City Council have additional HMO licensing?
No additional HMO licensing scheme; small HMOs (up to 4 people in 2 or more households) inside the selective licensing areas need a selective licence instead.
Do large HMOs need a licence?
Yes. Mandatory HMO licensing applies across England to HMOs occupied by five or more people forming two or more households.
How do I apply?
Apply through the council’s website: https://regulatory.leicester.gov.uk/