A concerned sheddie emailed this query.. but I don’t have an answer any sheddies care to comment
photo credit: markhillary
Could you clarify the ruling on the drinking within a pub shed, every first Wednesday in the month I have approx 20 friends around and we have a royal time!
Every one contributes £10, this covers the beer and we also lay on a curry. I have been warned by a friend that this is maybe breaking the law as it could be said that I am selling the beer and food.
He advised me to put up a sign saying “all drinks are free, donations are greatly received” and this covers me legally?
This is a very informal drinks night, no profit is made but my concern is that the local pubs may take the hump and report to who ever, have you had any dealings or similar questions from other pubshed owners
Any help?
I'm going to check with someone who I know who does know -being a Brewer. As I understand it, there may indeed be difficulties if you are supplying all the beer – whether or not you charge individually for glasses-or 'overall'. I run a shed-bar in a similar way. I don't charge at all, but people always bring a bottle and in that way it's like a party. Swings and roundabouts – usually in favour of restocking the bar. That might be unlawful too though…as I'm still 'supplying' in a roundabout way. And if you want barrells… Licencing is about managing the event responsibly more than the detail. it means, for example, you take care not to involve children in the boozing. Of course you don't, but those considerations are what the regulations are about. Your council will have a licensing officer you could ring up and speak to anonymously. The 'Donations' thing is an old chestnut. i don't think it was legal then, and the laws have changed since. Arry