Petroleum licence
Licence summary
To run a business where petrol is stored for dispensing directly into the fuel tank of an internal combustion engine or where large amounts of petrol are stored for private use, you need a licence from your local petroleum licensing authority.
Applications for areas in Greater London or a metropolitan county must be made to the local fire and rescue authority. In all other instances applications should be made to the local county or county borough council.
Fees will be payable for a licence and conditions may be attached to a licence.
Where to find help
Apply online
Eligibility criteria
No provision in legislation
Application evaluation process
Once your application is received, a licensing officer will contact you to make arrangements to carry out an inspection of your premises.
Will tacit consent apply
No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it.
Target completion
You can expect to be contacted by a Petroleum Officer within 14 days of receipt of your application. We would normally expect to let you know our decision on your application within six weeks of receipt.
Failed application redress
Please contact Cheshire West and Chester Council in the first instance.
If an application is refused the applicant may appeal to the Secretary of State.
Licence holder redress
Please contact Cheshire West and Chester Council in the first instance.
Consumer complaint
We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form of a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, further information about making a complaint can be found on the Information for Consumers page of this website.
Trade associations