Licence summary

The Hypnotism Act 1952 empowers licensing authorities to attach conditions to a hypnotism licence to regulate or prohibit the public performance of an exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism on any person. You must comply with all conditions attached to the hypnotism licence.

A separate hypnotism licence application and licence fee is required for each proposed performance venue and each proposed series of performances within the  district.

Exemptions

The Hypnotism Act 1952 does not prevent the exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism (otherwise than at or in connection with an entertainment) for scientific or research purposes or for the treatment of mental or physical disease. The need to gain authorisation does not apply to an exhibition demonstration or performance of hypnotism that takes place in the course of a performance of a play (within the meaning of the Theatres Act 1968 or the Licensing Act 2003) given at premises in respect of which a licence under those Acts is in force.

Eligibility criteria

You may apply as long as you have not been previously refused or had withdrawn, a consent by any Licensing Authority or been convicted of an offence under the Hypnotism Act 1952 or of an offence involving the breach of a condition regulating or prohibiting the giving of a performance of hypnotism on any person at a place licensed for regulated entertainment under the Licensing Act 2003.

Regulation summary

A Summary of the Hypnotism Act has been produced by the National Archives.

Tacit consent

Tacit consent does not apply to Hypnotism.

It is in the public interest that we process your application before it can be granted.

If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us. You can do this online if you applied the gov.uk website or use the contact details below.

Application process and fee

The fee for a Hypnotism Permit if £118 (£123 from 01/04/2024) per performance.

For new applications only, applicants may pay 5% less when making an application. If you do, you would then be invoiced for this amount plus £20 for the additional administration cost, when the licence has been issued.

We have produced a set of Standard Conditions for Hypnotism which will be attached to your permit.

How to apply

You can apply for a Hypnotism Permit in two ways:

Failed application redress

Please contact us in the first instance.

Any applicant who is refused a licence can appeal to their local Magistrates’ court.

Licence holder redress

Please contact us in the first instance.

Any licence holder who wishes to appeal against a condition attached to their licence can appeal to their local Magistrates’ court.

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 a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked gov.uk can offer advice on Consumer Protection Rights.

Trade associations

You may find the following organisations useful:

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