Gloucester: landlord licensing

Gloucester does not currently run a selective or additional licensing scheme, but mandatory HMO licensing still applies. Here is the full picture.

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Proposed / under review

These schemes are consulted on or otherwise not yet formally in force. They do not require a licence today but are worth watching.

Additional (HMO) licensing

proposed

PROPOSED citywide additional licensing for all HMOs (incl. s257). Consultation ran to 11 May 2026, possible introduction 2026. Not yet approved.

Dates
To be confirmed
Council source →

Mandatory HMO licensing (applies everywhere)

Regardless of local schemes, any property in Gloucester let to 5 or more people forming 2 or more households, who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet, needs a mandatory HMO licence under the Housing Act 2004. Licences last up to 5 years and the fee is set by the council.

Penalties for operating unlicensed

  • Civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence (raised from £30,000 on 1 May 2026).
  • Rent Repayment Order of up to 24 months' rent, claimable by the tenant.
  • Unlimited fine on criminal prosecution, plus possible banning order.
  • Once the national PRS Database is live, unregistered landlords can be blocked from regaining possession.

Notes

Consultation stage only. Mandatory HMO licensing only currently.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a landlord licence in Gloucester?

Gloucester does not currently operate a selective or additional licensing scheme. However, mandatory HMO licensing still applies to any property let to 5 or more people forming 2 or more households and sharing facilities.

What is the penalty for an unlicensed property in Gloucester?

Operating a licensable property without a licence can lead to a civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence, a Rent Repayment Order of up to 24 months' rent, an unlimited fine on prosecution, and a banning order for serious or repeat offenders.

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Data verified against council sources as of July 2026. PRSCheck is an information service, not legal advice. Many schemes are designated at street or part-ward level; confirm the exact boundary for your address with the council before relying on this page. Browse all councils.