Rental Property Licensing in Clifton, Bristol

Clifton is one of Bristol's most well-known neighbourhoods, located to the west of the city centre. It is home to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a large number of Georgian terraces, and a significant concentration of privately rented properties, including many student and professional lets. Clifton falls within the jurisdiction of Bristol City Council.

Selective licensing in Clifton

Bristol City Council operates selective licensing schemes in designated areas of the city. Clifton and the surrounding areas have been subject to consultation and designation as part of Bristol's broader approach to private rented sector licensing. Landlords in Clifton should check whether their specific property falls within a current selective licensing designation.

Additional licensing for HMOs in Clifton

Bristol City Council operates a city-wide additional licensing scheme for HMOs occupied by three or more people forming two or more households. This scheme covers the whole of Bristol, including Clifton, and means that a wide range of shared properties in the area require a licence.

Clifton has a high concentration of converted Georgian properties let to students and young professionals, many of which meet the HMO definition. Landlords of shared houses and flats with three or four occupants in Clifton should check whether their property requires an additional HMO licence from Bristol City Council.

Mandatory HMO licensing

Properties in Clifton occupied by five or more people forming two or more households, sharing facilities, are subject to mandatory HMO licensing. This is a national requirement and applies across the whole of Bristol.

How to apply

Licence applications for properties in Clifton are made through Bristol City Council's online portal. For current information on designated areas, fees, and application requirements, visit the Bristol City Council landlord licensing page.