Even Santa’s grotto needs a TV licence

Christmas businesses, hotels and pubs need a TV Licence if customers or staff watch live TV

TV Licensing has issued a reminder that all businesses, even toy workshops and reindeer stables, need a TV Licence to show live TV.

Any temporary business needing a TV Licence over the Christmas period can buy one in October and claim a refund worth more than £100 in the New Year, provided the licence isn’t needed again before it expires.

TV Licensing is also prompting all businesses in Rochdale, whether open just for the festive period or year round, to make sure they are aware of their licensing requirements in order to avoid the risk of getting caught over the holiday period and facing prosecution with a large fine.

The ease with which wireless smart TVs and portable tablets can show live online, TV services such as iPlayer, means it’s relatively simple for temporary businesses to show live TV as entertainment for customers.

Paul Williams, spokesperson for TV Licensing said: “We want people to stay on the right side of the law and enable people to enjoy a happy Christmas. But any business in Rochdale showing live television, whether for customers’ use or in staff areas, must be covered by a valid TV Licence.

“Those without a valid licence are breaking the law and run the risk of a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000 per offence, plus costs. Those found guilty are also required to buy a TV Licence at £145.50, or they could face a potential second prosecution. So whether you’re managing a grotto, toy factory or reindeer stable, make sure you have a valid TV Licence.”

In offices manned by a skeleton staff over the Christmas period, some employers may be tempted to allow staff to watch TV. To help businesses and staff understand the legal implications of this, TV Licensing has produced a downloadable “TV in the Workplace” guide. The guide allows managers to outline whether the business is covered by a TV Licence and whether staff and customers are allowed to watch TV in the workplace. Download the template at http://bit.ly/198Xk6a