Environmental Health and Licensing Enforcement Policy Consultation 2026
An opportunity to shape local regulatory standards is now open to the public, Adur District Council and Worthing Borough Council are inviting feedback on the newly updated draft Environmental Health and Licensing Enforcement Policy.
The policy plays a vital role across our communities by guiding how we regulate businesses and manage critical public health issues - spanning food safety, noise control, pollution, licensing, animal welfare, and health & safety enforcement.
As an 'enabling regulator', our objective is to balance robust public protection with a commitment to supporting local economic growth and ensuring the district remains a thriving place to live and work.
Originally adopted in 2017 and previously reviewed in 2020 and 2023, the policy has been refreshed to align with evolving statutory guidance and new national legislation such as upcoming vapes and tobacco licensing.
Key proposals in the 2026 draft include moving from a three-year to a five-year policy review cycle and reinforcing our graduated enforcement approach, which prioritises clear advice and education over immediate legal action.
Why your feedback matters
To ensure our enforcement mechanisms remain proportionate, transparent, and fair, we need to hear from local business owners, residents, and community groups. Your insights will help us refine our approaches to targeting serious risks and ensuring that our instructions and guidance are clear and easy to follow.
How to participate
The public consultation is active for eight weeks, running until midnight on 19th October 2026.
First: review the draft document (changes have been marked in red):
Then: complete the survey:
For any specific questions, or to request the documentation in an alternative format, please contact the team:
Page last updated: 21 August 2026