Below is a list of frequently asked questions:

• Who can act as my character reference?
• Will I need planning permission for my operators licence?
• Does my operating base have to be in the Ashfield District?
• As an operator, how should I run my business?
• If I fail in my applications do I get any money back?

Who can act as my character reference?

One reference must be from you most recent or current employer and the other must be from a Member of Parliament, Justice of the Peace, Minister of Religion, a professionally qualified person e.g. Doctor, Lawyer, Engineer, a local Councilor, Bank Office, Established Civil Servant, Police Officer or a person of similar standing who has known you for at least two years and who is a Commonwealth citizen.
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Will I need planning permission for my operators licence?

We recommend that you contact the Council's Development Advice and Control section who will confirm if you need planning permission. The property you intend to use my require a 'change of use' through planning; depending on how many vehicles you intend to employ, the surrounding areas use (be it residential or commercial) and the use of signage and radio masts outside the property may affect a planning application.
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Does my operating base have to be in the Council area?

The base for the operator's licence does need to be within the Ashfield District, however, you can have a telephone address within the area.
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As an operator, how should I run my business?

To operate you will require a telephone to receive calls and keep records in a Bookings book and Complaints book.

The following information should be recorded in the Bookings book:

• Time and date of the booking
• Name and address of the hirer
• How the booking was received
• Time of pick-up and full address
• Destination of passenger
• Licence number and call sign of the vehicle allocated
• Time and driver name and call sign allocated the fare
• Records should be kept for a minimum of two years.

Other records to be kept and the operator's base (for inspection) include:

• All employed vehicle licence and registration numbers
• Make, colour, engine size and year of manufacture
• All employed vehicles insurance certificates and cover notes
• Name and address of proprietor
• Name and address of drivers for each vehicle and badge number
• The paper licence's of drivers and vehicles will be retained by the operator whilst ever they are working for them

The above records must be able to be produced on request to any authorised officer on the Council for inspection.
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If I fail my application do I get my money back?

The application fee is a single fee that covers the whole of your application and is broken down into separate parts for administration and accountancy purposes only. The fee is non-refundable.

Please contact the Licensing Section, Environment Health & Housing Services if you have any further questions.

Ashfield District Council
Licensing Section
Environmental Health & Housing Services
Council Offices,
Urban Road,,
Kirkby-in-Ashfield,
Nottinghamshire
NG17 8DA

Direct Telephone: 01623 457 412
Direct Fax: 01623 457 530
Email: licensing@ashfield-dc.gov.uk