A garden bar used to host friends who are not paying is normal home life. The licensing question appears when money changes hands: selling drinks, charging for entry that includes drinks, or running an event open to the public. This page explains where temporary event notices fit. It is general information, not legal advice.
What a temporary event notice is
A temporary event notice, often called a TEN, is a way to carry out licensable activities, such as selling alcohol, at premises that are not otherwise licensed, for a limited event. GOV.UK sets out who can give a notice, how much notice the council needs, how many people can attend and how many notices can be given in a year. Those limits are specific, so read them on GOV.UK rather than relying on memory or a forum post.
The notice goes to the local council, and the police and environmental health can object.
When the question comes up for a garden bar
- Charging guests for drinks, even "just to cover costs".
- Selling tickets to a party where drinks are included.
- A fundraiser or community event in your garden where drinks are sold.
- Anything open to the public.
Our home bar licence guide explains the difference between owning a bar, giving drinks away and selling alcohol.
Other permissions may also apply
An event can raise questions beyond alcohol: noise, neighbours, food hygiene and public liability insurance among them. See neighbours and noise and insurance.
Scotland and Northern Ireland
Licensing law is different in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The temporary event notice described on GOV.UK applies in England and Wales. Contact your council's licensing team for the equivalent arrangements where you live.
What we will not do
We do not advise on selling alcohol, running events for profit or how to complete a notice. The licensing team at your council and GOV.UK are the right sources.
If an event involves anyone paying, read the GOV.UK temporary events notice page first and contact the council licensing team well before the date.
Quick answers
Do I need a temporary event notice for a birthday party at home?
Not if you are hosting and nobody pays for alcohol. The question arises when alcohol is sold, including through tickets.
Who do I give a temporary event notice to?
GOV.UK explains the process; notices go to the local council, with copies to the police and environmental health.
Do TENs apply in Scotland?
No. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different licensing systems. Ask your council.
Sources
Primary guidance checked 10 November 2026.