The Licensing Committee comprises 13 councillors and is responsible for discharging the Council's licensing functions under the Licensing Act 2003 and the Gambling Act 2005. The Committee also deals with the licensing of taxis and private hire cars, street trading, food and water safety, health and safety, animal establishments and street and house collections. The Licensing Committee meets as necessary.

The Licensing Sub-Committee conducts hearings mainly in respect of contested applications under the Licensing Act 2003 and Gambling Act 2005.