No matter what type of licensed venue you run, there are many different things that can lead to heavy fines, or even to temporary or permanent closure. However, it can be harder to enforce many licensing laws than many people realise, and far easier than you might think to be caught flouting laws you were totally unaware existed.
From serving people who are under age to allowing people to smoke inside, there are many things that can lead to heavy fines, and with many areas finding that their pub trade is already struggling, any type of fine for a licensed business could well end up leaving them unable to continue.
Understanding the different laws that apply to those in the bar trade is hard at the best of times and there are many grey areas that people may see others utilising to their benefit only to find they are later fined for the very same thing. For instance, the use of Shishas in pubs has grown significantly over the past few years as they have become more and more popular as gimmicks. However, those allowing customers to use such a thing indoors are liable for the same fines as those who let individuals smoke cigarettes inside.
The smoking ban has lead to further complications, with many not being aware exactly what constitutes inside and outside. Many areas have covered roofs but open sides, and the extent to which an area can be enclosed before it is classed as indoors will need to be known precisely if people are to avoid potential fines.
Ultimately, if there is any uncertainty about any area of the law governing licensing, it will be best to consult licensing solicitors to ensure you are always working within the law, but still getting all the opportunities you should be afforded without worrying whether they will be seen as right or wrong.