Hypnotism Consent

Meaning of Hypnotism

"hypnotism” includes hypnotism, mesmerism and any similar act or process which produces or is intended to produce in any person any form of induced sleep or trance in which the susceptibility of the mind of that person to suggestion or direction is increased or intended to be increased but does not include hypnotism, mesmerism or any such similar act or process which is self-induced. (Hypnotism Act 1952 section 6)

Do I need consent?

If you wish to show, demonstrate or perform a hypnotism act in public in the Dudley MBC area, you must have authorisation from the Licensing Office, contact details below. This is in addition to any other theatre or entertainment licence you may hold.

What Legislation, Regulations and Conditions apply?

Detailed information can be found in the following:-

Licensing Act 2003

Hypnotism Act 1952

Regulation Summary

A copy of Dudley MBC Conditions can be found at the foot of this page.

In Brief

• Legislation prohibits demonstration of hypnotism to people under 18 years of age. 

• The premises in which hypnotism will take place must hold a premises licence or a club premises certificate. 

• The application must be completed and submitted to the Licensing Office at least 28 days before the proposed exhibition, performance or demonstration of hypnotism. 

• Consent will only be granted if the applicant is able to demonstrate compliance with the Council's Conditions, a copy of which can be downloaded from the foot of this page 

Public Register

The Legislation does not require a register of Hypnotism Consents to be kept.

How much does it Cost?

The current fee (1st April 2001 - 31st March 2012) for a Hynotism Consent is £25.00

Application Process

Applications should be submitted to the Licensing Office, contact details below, at least 28 days before the performance. 

An application form can be downloaded from the foot of this page. 

An Online Application process is being developed.

How long will it take to process my application?

We will acknowledge receipt of your application within 7 days. However, if you do not receive this acknowledgement within 7 days, please contact us.

We will process your application and tell you the outcome within 28 days of receipt.

Will Tacit Consent apply?

Yes, tacit consent will apply if you have not heard from the Licensing section within 28 days.

Failed Application Redress

Please contact the Licensing Office in the first instance

How do I tell you about a change that may affect my Consent?

Contact the Licensing office without delay.

What if I have a complaint or concern?

Contact the Licensing Office without delay

Contacting the Licensing Office 

The office is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm daily. Applicants are seen by appointment only. 

Disabled users of our service, please note that if possible could you contact us to make an appointment before visiting our offices, to enable us to meet your needs.