Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZs) and Licensed Premises: What You Need to Know
- Simon Francis
- Dec 22, 2025
- 3 min read
Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZs) are one of the most important — and often misunderstood — aspects of licensing law for pubs, bars, restaurants, takeaways, and late-night venues. If your premises is located within a CIZ, the way your application is assessed will be fundamentally different.
This guide explains what CIZs are, how they affect licensed premises, and what operators can do to improve their chances of success.
What Is a Cumulative Impact Zone?
A Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) is an area designated by a Licensing Authority where there is evidence that the number or density of licensed premises is causing problems linked to the licensing objectives, such as:
Crime and disorder
Public nuisance (noise, anti-social behaviour)
Public safety
Protection of children from harm
CIZs are set out in a council’s Statement of Licensing Policy and are supported by evidence gathered over time from responsible authorities such as the police and environmental health.
Does a CIZ Mean Licences Are Refused Automatically?
No — but it does mean the burden of proof shifts.
Outside a CIZ, applications are generally assessed on their individual merits. Inside a CIZ, there is usually a rebuttable presumption of refusal for certain types of applications, particularly:
New premises licences
Extensions of hours
Additional licensable activities (e.g. late-night alcohol sales)
This means the applicant must demonstrate clearly and convincingly that granting the licence will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced in the area.
What Types of Premises Are Most Affected by a CIZ?
While each CIZ is different, the following premises are often subject to the greatest scrutiny:
Late-night bars and pubs
Off-licences selling high-strength alcohol
Takeaways operating after 23:00
Venues with vertical drinking
Premises seeking extended hours
Some CIZs are more nuanced and may:
Allow restaurants but restrict bars
Permit earlier closing times
Apply different rules to alcohol on-sales and off-sales
Common Mistakes Operators Make in CIZ Applications
Many applications fail in CIZ areas because they:
Rely on generic operating schedules
Fail to address local evidence and policy wording
Do not engage with the responsible authorities early
Assume “good management” alone will be enough
Underestimate how strictly policies are applied
In CIZ cases, detail, precision, and local knowledge matter.
How Can You Improve Your Chances in a CIZ?
Successful applications in CIZs usually include:
A bespoke operating schedule tailored to the specific zone
Clear measures addressing crime, dispersal, noise, and management
Reduced hours or conditions that go beyond policy expectations
Evidence of engagement with the police and other authorities
A strong understanding of how the premises differs from others nearby
Where objections cannot be resolved, professional representation at a Licensing Sub-Committee hearing can be critical.
Do CIZs Affect Existing Premises?
Yes — not just new applications.
Existing premises in CIZs should be particularly careful when:
Applying for variations
Changing their business model
Increasing capacity or hours
Responding to complaints or enforcement issues
A poorly planned variation or compliance failure can result in a review of the premises licence, where the existence of a CIZ can significantly influence the outcome.
Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZs) and Licensed Premises-Final Thoughts
Cumulative Impact Zones are not a blanket ban on licensing — but they raise the bar significantly. Operators who understand the local policy, prepare properly, and seek specialist advice early are far better placed to succeed.
If your premises is in, or near, a CIZ, it’s essential to approach licensing strategically rather than assuming a standard application will suffice.
Need Advice on a CIZ Application?
Licensing Professionals provide expert support with:
Premises licence applications in CIZs
Variations and hour extensions
Review hearings and representations
Licensing compliance reviews
A free initial consultation is available to discuss your premises and local policy considerations.