Council licensing in the North West
Licensing across the North West.
Compare council schemes across the North West, then check a postcode to see what applies to your home.
We researched 9 of 35 councils in the North West from council sources on 15 October 2026. Councils in the rest of England
Landlords here must join the landlord register between 15 May 2027 and 14 August 2027. These dates are planned. About the register
Check an address
North West licensing at a glance
- Selective licensing in some areas5
- New scheme approved or proposed1
- National rules only3
- Not researched yet26
North West councils15 Oct 2026ONS boundaries
Select a researched council to see its wards, schemes and exemptions. Boundaries from ONS.
If your council has designated an additional HMO licensing area or a selective licensing area covering your property, you must hold a licence for it. Schemes, areas, fees and conditions vary by council. Read the rule
Compare the councils
| Council | Selective licensing | Additional HMO licensing | Consultation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolton Checked 15 Oct 2026 | None | No Approved, whole council area Approved, whole council area | None open |
| Cheshire East Checked 15 Oct 2026 | None | No | None open |
| Cheshire West and Chester Checked 15 Oct 2026 | None | No | None open |
| Liverpool Checked 15 Oct 2026 | 16 wards Proposed, whole council area Proposed, 29 wards Proposed, 26 wards | No | Awaiting decision |
| Manchester Checked 15 Oct 2026 | Part of the council area | No | None open |
| Salford Checked 15 Oct 2026 | Part of the council area | No Approved, whole council area from 24 November 2026 | None open |
| Sefton Checked 15 Oct 2026 | Part of the council area | Yes, part of the council area | None open |
| Wigan Checked 15 Oct 2026 | None | No | None open |
| Wirral Checked 15 Oct 2026 | Part of the council area | No | None open |
Columns show schemes in force now. Approved and proposed schemes appear underneath. An HMO occupied by 5 or more people forming 2 or more households must be licensed by the council, anywhere in England. Read the rule