Landlord licensing in Bristol City Council

Licensing at a glance

HMO licensing

Mandatory licensing applies to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are occupied by five or more persons forming two or more households, who share amenities. This is a national scheme.

Additional licensing

Yes - Bristol City Council has designated specific wards for additional licensing of HMOs that do not fall under mandatory HMO licensing. This applies to HMOs occupied by three or four persons forming two or more households, who share amenities.

Selective licensing

Yes - Bristol City Council has designated specific wards for selective licensing, requiring all privately rented properties within these areas to be licensed. Check the council's website for an up-to-date map of designated areas.

Typical fees

From around £1,300 for 5 years

Towns covered

Bristol, Clifton, Bedminster, Easton

What this means for you

If you let a property in Bristol City Council, check whether it falls inside a licensing designation before you advertise it. Licensable properties let without a licence can lead to a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offence and a rent repayment order for up to 12 months of rent. All landlords must provide a written tenancy agreement to tenants as required by the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Confirm the licensing status by postcode on the council website, keep gas, electrical and EPC certificates current, and store the licence with your compliance records.

Official links

• Licensing pages
• Council website