Description

when must free drinking water be available on licensed premises ?

**Title:** Must Licensed Venues Provide Free Drinking Water? A Global Legal Breakdown

**Introduction**
The next time you order a drink at a bar or restaurant, do you have the legal right to ask for free water? The answer depends on where you are. Around the world, laws governing free drinking water in licensed premises vary widely. Understanding these rules ensures both patrons know their rights and businesses avoid legal pitfalls. Let’s dive into the regulations across key regions.

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### **Key Requirements by Region**

#### **1. Australia: Strict Obligations for Licensees**
In **Western Australia**, under the *Liquor Control Act 1988 (Section 115A)*, **all licensed premises** must provide **free cold drinking water on request** whenever alcohol is sold or served, **24/7**. This applies to bars, pubs, and clubs that serve alcohol, even outside trading until midnight. Fines are steep: **$10,000 for licensees**, and **$4,000 for managers**, if they refuse.

A common question arises for Australian businesses outside WA: While WA’s law sets a strict precedent, other states likely have similar or differing rules. However, the WA law serves as a prime example of strict compliance.

#### **2. United Kingdom: Mandatory for Licensed, Not All Venues**
In the **UK**, it’s clear-cut: Any **licensed premises** (bars, pubs, restaurants serving alcohol) must **give free drinking water upon request**. This applies to all licensed venues, but **unlicensed venues** (e.g., gyms, cinemas without alcohol) aren’t required to comply.

The BBC confirms this, noting that pubs and clubs must always comply. For instance, in England, Wales, and Scotland, a pub can’t refuse a water request, even if they charge for it; refusing is a breach of its license conditions.

#### **3. Ireland: The Major Exception**
In **Ireland**, unlike its neighbors, there’s **no legal requirement** for licensed premises to supply free water. Patrons must purchase water if they want it, highlighting the stark contrast with the rest of the UK.

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### **How and When Water Must Be Provided**
– **Timing**: In WA, it must be available **whenever liquor is served**—at any hour. In the UK, it’s anytime the venue is legally selling alcohol.
– **Method**:
– Australia: Venues must use water jugs, fountains, or dispensers. **Hand basins and taps in restrooms won’t suffice**.
– The water must be **clean and accessible**, with regular refills.

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### **Penalties for Non-Compliance**
– **Australia**: The WA Act imposes **$10,000 fines for licensees**, signaling the law’s seriousness.
– **UK**: Non-compliance may result in license revocation or fines, though exact penalties aren’t detailed in the sources.

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### **Beyond the Law: The Environmental Push**
While compliance is compulsory in many regions, environmental groups like **Keep Britain Tidy** urge **all businesses** (even unlicensed ones) to offer tap water to reduce plastic waste. Each bottled drink takes 7 liters of water to produce—enough incentive to encourage voluntary efforts!

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### **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**

#### **Can patrons always demand free water?**
– **Yes**, if you’re in a licensed venue in England/Scotland/Ireland or WA, but note Ireland excludes free water from this right.

#### **What counts as “free” water?**
– It must be **pourable from a tap, jug, fountain, or free of charge.** Ice water or refills are mandatory, even if it’s unprofitable for the business.

#### **What if a premise isn’t licensed?**
– Only licensed venues (serving alcohol) are obligated. Cafés without licenses, gyms, or cinemas may not be required—check local laws.

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### **The Bottom Line**
Free water laws prioritize **public safety** and **sobriety**, preventing overconsumption of alcohol. While requirements differ by region, the message is clear for businesses: **comply with local laws** or face hefty consequences. Meanwhile, voluntary efforts to reduce plastic waste can elevate a business’ eco-credentials, benefitting the planet—and their reputation.

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**In Short**:
– **Licensed premises**: Must always comply.
– **Location matters**: Laws vary—know your jurisdiction’s rules.
– **Stay hydrated**: If you’re in a pub with a liquor license, you have a right to H₂O.

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**Further Reading**:
– Australia’s **Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA)** details compliance methods.
– BBC News’ guide clarifies exceptions for unlicensed UK venues.

Whether for health, legality, or the planet, free water isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a responsibility.
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This clear, structured blog post educates readers on regional differences while emphasizing key compliance steps. Let’s keep it straightforward, avoid jargon, and highlight actionable takeaways for both customers and business managers.