Underage sales
How to prevent under age sales
We are working hard to combat underage sales. The protection of children from harm is one of the key licensing objectives within the Licensing Act 2003. Although this relates to alcohol there is a need to protect children from all age restricted products and services.
Age 18 restrictions apply to:
- Alcohol
- Adult magazines
- Cigarettes and tobacco (and tobacco related products)
- Fireworks and sparklers
- Offensive weapons and knives
(including knife blades or razor blades, plus any axe) - Solvents
- Sunbed’s (hire or use of UV tanning equipment)
- Tattoo's
Age 16 restrictions apply to:
- Caps, party poppers (and similar products)
- Liqueur chocolates
- Lottery tickets, scratch cards
- Petrol (this age covers both purchasing and dispensing)
- Spray paints and aerosols
Age 12, 15 restrictions apply to:
- DVD recordings, as marked (includes video games and computer games)
No proof of Age - No Sale
Trading Standards have produced a video toolkit to help businesses comply with legislation on the sale of age restricted products. To get a taster of what is available, please visit the SWERCOTS website.
Training
Businesses need to provide adequate training for all staff. Training should be a priority for all new staff and refresher training should be given at regular intervals. The refresher training should include any changes in the law and any new developments, such as a locally approved proof of age scheme. The resources below are available for businesses to download.
Guidance
Underage sales policy guidance [72KB]
Age verification policy - General [126KB]
Age verification policy - Alcohol [127KB]
Posters
Proxy Sales [426KB]
Under 25? [51KB]
We also provide a one to one coaching service to assist small-medium businesses in preventing underage sales. Please see the attached flyer or contact the Underage Sales Officer on 01752 304141 or email public.protection@plymouth.gov.uk.