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Date updated: 13/04/2023

Hypnotism Act 1952

Licence summary

If you wish to show, demonstrate or perform a hypnotism act in public within the City of London, you must have authorisation from the Council to do so.

The requirement for authorisation does not apply to an exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism that takes place in the course of a performance of a play or where an exhibition is given for scientific or research purposes or for the treatment of mental or physical disease (unless in connection with an entertainment).

Note: It is an offence to carry out hypnotism on a person under the age of 18. You must comply with any conditions attached to a hypnotism permit.

Apply for a hypnotism permit

If you would like advice or assistance with an application or licence please contact the licensing team by phone on 020 7332 3406 or send an email to the Licensing Team.

No person shall give an exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism in public unless they are authorised by the licensing authority to do so. There is no fee for this application. 

The regulation relating to this permit can be viewed on the Government's Legislation website.

Applications must be made using the City of London's form and the maximum possible notice, but not less than 28 days, should be given to the Council. This is to enable the application to be properly considered, especially where the hypnotist has not previously performed in the Council's area. The notice period may be reduced in the case of a hypnotist who has performed at the same venue within the last three years without any problems occurring.​

The licensing authority will consult with the Fire Authority and City of London Police before determining your application. The licensing authority may also consult other local authorities where the hypnotist has previously performed.​

The licensing authority will normally respond to an application between seven and 14 days of receipt.

No. It is in the public interest that City of London Corporation must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us by phone on 020 7332 3406 or send an email to the Licensing Team.

No. It is in the public interest that City of London Corporation must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us by phone on 020 7332 3406 or send an email to the Licensing Team.

Please email the Licensing Team for further information.