2nd of Mar, 2026.

Temporary Events Notice (TEN) in London: How to Apply, Timelines & Production Planning

Key Takeaways

Allow at least 10 clear working days for a standard Temporary Event Notice (TEN) in London, but production teams should build in 2–3 weeks to stay schedule-safe.
TENs are limited to events of 499 people or fewer (including staff and crew) and run for a maximum of 168 hours (7 days), making them ideal for small-scale pop-ups and music activations.

If you’re planning a pop-up performance, brand activation, private party or short-term filming event in London, securing a Temporary Events Notice (TEN) is often the fastest route to legal compliance. For producers, location managers and event teams working to tight lead times, understanding the TEN process — and its real-world timelines — can make or break your schedule.

Below is Silverstein Locations’ practical guide to booking a TEN in London, including how long it takes, when you need one, and key pitfalls to avoid.

OUR LOCATIONS

Wapping Carpark, a premier film location in London.

What Is a Temporary Events Notice?

A Temporary Events Notice is a short-term permission that allows licensable activities at a venue that doesn’t already have the appropriate premises licence.

You typically need a TEN if your event involves:

Selling or supplying alcohol
Providing regulated entertainment (live or recorded music, dancing, etc.)
Serving hot food or drink between 11pm and 5am

TENs are designed for small-scale, one-off or occasional events, making them ideal for pop-ups, launches and private showcases.

Key TEN Limits (London & England)

Before applying, check your event fits within the legal thresholds:

Maximum capacity: 499 people including staff
Maximum duration: 168 hours (7 days)
Minimum age to apply: 18+
Gap between events at same premises: 24 hours

For production teams, the 499-person cap is usually the key constraint for branded or music-led activations.

How to Apply for a TEN in London (Step-by-Step)

1. Identify the correct borough

Apply to the local council where the event premises sit. Each London borough processes its own TENs.

2. Complete the TEN application

You can usually apply online. You’ll need:

Premises address
Event dates and times
Nature of licensable activities
Personal details of the applicant

TENs must be submitted by an individual, not a company.

3. Pay the statutory fee

Standard fee: £21 per notice

4. Police & Environmental Health review

If you apply online, the council normally circulates the notice to the relevant authorities.

Putney Boathouse, a film location in London.

How Long Does a TEN Take?

Standard TEN timeline (recommended)

Must be submitted at least 10 clear working days before the event
Police and Environmental Health have 3 working days to object
If no objections are received, the TEN is typically granted automatically.

Realistic planning advice (SL):
Allow 2–3 weeks lead time in London to stay production-safe.

Late TEN (higher risk option)

You can apply late, but with limitations:

Submit 5–9 clear working days before the event
If authorities object, the TEN is automatically invalid
Strict annual limits apply to late notices

Production note: Late TENs are common in music pop-ups but carry real risk — build contingency.

When Might a TEN Be Refused?

Councils can only block a TEN if the police or Environmental Health object on licensing grounds, such as:

Crime and disorder
Public nuisance
Public safety
Risk to children

If objections occur, a licensing hearing may be scheduled shortly before the event.

Cottage Barn, a film location in West Sussex.

How Many TENs Can You Use?

Per individual per year:

5 TENs (no personal alcohol licence)
Up to 50 TENs (with personal licence)

Per premises:

Typically up to 15 TENs annually (borough rules can vary slightly)

Production & Pop-Up Planning Tips (SL Insight)

Book your TEN early
London boroughs process quickly, but objections and hearings can derail tight schedules.

Check venue permissions separately
A TEN does not grant permission to use public land or highways — additional permits may be required.

Watch your headcount
The 499 cap includes:

Staff
Security
Performers
Crew

Confirm noise strategy
Most objections in London relate to nuisance and sound bleed.

Fish Island Studios, a film location in London.

Typical Use Cases We See

At Silverstein Locations, TENs are commonly used for:

Rap and DJ pop-ups
Brand activations
Private showcase performances
Fashion launch parties
Short-term experiential events

Need Support?

If you’re planning a London pop-up or music-led activation and want to situate it in a phenomenal London location, Silverstein Locations can advise on spaces and provide realistic timelines.

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