Selective licensing in Doncaster
Yes. Doncaster operates a selective licensing scheme. Letting a covered property without a licence risks a civil penalty of up to £40,000 and a rent repayment order of up to two years' rent.
Common questions
Do I need a selective licence in Doncaster?
Yes. Doncaster operates a selective licensing scheme. Letting a covered property without a licence risks a civil penalty of up to £40,000 and a rent repayment order of up to two years' rent.
Which areas of Doncaster does the scheme cover?
Defined area of Hexthorpe, within the Hexthorpe and Balby North ward (a defined street-level area, not the whole ward). Confirm a specific address against the council's own designation map before applying.
When does Doncaster's scheme end?
The designation runs until 28 February 2027, unless the council revokes it earlier under section 84 of the Housing Act 2004.
What does the licence cost?
£600. Councils commonly discount for accredited landlords and early applications; confirm the current figure with Doncaster before budgeting.
Paid in two parts — one on application, the balance before the licence is issued.
| Part 1 | £200 |
| Part 2 | £600 |
| Total | £600 |
- Discount off Part 2
Doncaster, read 24 August 2026
What this means for a landlord
A licence must be in place before the property is let, not applied for afterwards. Operating unlicensed in a designated area is a criminal offence: a civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence and a rent repayment order of up to two years' rent. Both maxima apply to conduct on or after 1 May 2026; before that date they were £30,000 and twelve months. Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026 and possession now runs through the amended section 8 grounds. Mandatory HMO licensing applies separately and everywhere, wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.
Information tool, not legal advice. Confirm the position with Doncaster before letting.