The Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 was introduced to help address problems created by alcohol misuse in Scotland while creating a better environment for the many members of the public who drink and behave responsibly.
The new licensing system reforms outdated licensing laws and brings in a new licensing regime founded on five licensing objectives:
- Preventing crime and disorder
- Securing public safety
- Preventing public nuisance
- Protecting and improving public health
- Protecting children from harm