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Holiday season and street parties

During the summer holiday season we have lots of events in the city, and many communities getting together to hold street parties or events. During this time we are often asked questions about attending or hosting events.

Unlike in the rest of the United Kingdom, there is no legislation governing street party licensing in Northern Ireland. That means you don't currently need a licence to hold a street party and , if music is only a small part of your event, you won't need an entertainment licence either. However, if music plays a larger part of the event, you'll need to check with our Building Control staff if you need an entertainment licence.

If you're attending an event in the city, or organising a street party, you'll also need to consider the following factors.

• If you plan to close or obstruct roads or streets, you must contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Roads Service.


• Many parts of Belfast are alcohol-free zones. Anyone caught drinking alcohol on the streets can be prosecuted under our alcohol bye-laws.


• If you're organising a party, remember to show consideration for your neighbours who aren't attending by making sure yur event does not cause a noise nuisance.


• If you intend to sell any goods, you must comply with street trading laws.


• If you're going to make food for your street party, either for sale or for free, you must comply with food safety legislation. Advice is available from our Food Safety team.


• If you intend to sell alcohol at a street party, you must get a liquor licence. Belfast Magistrates Court deal with these licences - contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland or visit Gov.uk for information about how to apply for one.


• Although there is no law which says you need public liability insurance for events such as street parties, it is recommended that event organisers take advice about this.


• To help you manage litter and waste at your event, we've compiled a booklet called Managing litter and waste - guidelines for event organisers (PDF - 745KB).

During bank holidays some of our buildings or services may be unavailable, or have made alternative holiday opening arrangements.

For further help and advice, call us on 028 9032 0202.