Unless there is a specified exemption, all properties that meet the definition of a licensable HMO as specified in the Housing Act 2004 must possess a valid HMO licence from the local authority.
From 1 April 2025, we now charge £810 for the first 5 year licence and £670 to renew for a further 5 years. A 10% discount applies for landlords committing to the standards required by the Council Landlord Forum or a recognised landlord association. Fees for these members are reduced to £729 for a new licence and £603 for a renewal.
Guide to HMO licensing
Download the guide to HMO licensing.
Apply now
To apply, complete the HMO licence application form.
Licence summary
| Eligibility criteria | Applications must be made to Dorset Council, and your application is not complete until you have paid the relevant licence fee. You must be a fit and proper person to hold the licence. |
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| Regulation summary | A summary of regulations relating to this licence |
| Application evaluation process | Licences will normally be granted if:
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| Will your licence be granted automatically? | No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process and assess your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from your local authority within 28 days, please contact them. |
| Failed application redress/Licence holder redress | If we do not grant your licence, we will notify you. If you disagree with any aspect of our decision, with conditions attached to the licence or any decision to vary or revoke a licence, then please contact Dorset Council in the first instance. You may also appeal to a First Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) about these decisions. Any appeal must be made within 28 days of the decision being made. |