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Property Licensing Guide for Doncaster
Doncaster currently operates selective licensing; mandatory HMO licensing applies everywhere. Last checked: 3 July 2026.
This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in this area and how to apply for a licence.
New to this? Read our overview: What is selective licensing?
Doncaster Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Doncaster? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Doncaster and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Doncaster?
Mandatory licensing in Doncaster
Mandatory HMO licensing applies across Doncaster (and all of England) to larger HMOs — properties occupied by five or more people forming more than one household, including:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Doncaster?
Additional licensing requires smaller HMOs in a designated area to be licensed — a privately rented property with three or more people forming more than one household.
Doncaster does not currently operate an additional HMO licensing scheme; larger HMOs are covered by the national mandatory HMO scheme.
Do I need a selective licence in Doncaster?
Selective licensing requires almost all privately rented properties in a designated area to be licensed, regardless of the number of occupants.
Doncaster operates selective licensing — the current designation is set out below.
Selective licensing: 1 March 2022 to 28 February 2027 — covering Hexthorpe & Balby North.
Mandatory HMO licensing: in force since 2006 for HMOs of five or more people forming more than one household.
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply for a licence via Doncaster Council’s website here. Or let Kamma’s expert team process the application for you.
How much does a license cost?
Licence fees: see Doncaster Council’s property licensing fees page for current selective, additional and mandatory HMO fees.
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Doncaster Property Licensing FAQs
What licensing schemes does Doncaster operate?
Doncaster operates selective licensing (1 March 2022 to 28 February 2027), alongside the national mandatory HMO scheme. See the scheme details above.
Do all properties in Doncaster need a licence?
It depends on the scheme and your property. Where selective licensing applies, most privately rented homes need a licence; HMOs fall under mandatory or additional licensing depending on size and occupancy.What if my property doesn't have a licence?
Operating an unlicensed property that requires a licence can bring civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, rent repayment orders of up to 24 months, and being unable to serve a Section 21 notice. Letting agents can be held jointly liable.Can letting agents apply on behalf of landlords?
Yes. Letting agents can apply for property licences on behalf of landlords in Doncaster, and many manage the full process.
How do I apply for a Doncaster property licence?
You can apply through Doncaster Council’s website (licensing pages), or use a managed service such as Kamma.
How long does an application take?
Processing times vary with the council’s workload and the quality of the application. A complete, correctly prepared application is processed fastest.
Why did Doncaster introduce selective licensing?
Selective licensing is used to improve housing conditions and tackle anti-social behaviour in the private rented sector.
Why did Doncaster introduce additional licensing?
Additional HMO licensing addresses overcrowding, disrepair and management standards in smaller HMOs not covered by the national mandatory scheme.
What are the conditions to obtain an HMO licence in Doncaster?
The council’s HMO licence conditions set standards for fire safety, amenities, room sizes and management (licence conditions).
About Doncaster
Doncaster is a historic market town in South Yorkshire, England, known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant community. The town boasts a blend of modern developments and traditional architecture, with attractions such as the iconic Doncaster Racecourse and the scenic Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Doncaster has strong transport links, being well-connected by road and rail, and is part of the Sheffield City Region. As a growing hub for business and culture, Doncaster is a dynamic place that balances its historical roots with a forward-looking approach to economic and social development.
Licensing Enforcement in Doncaster
Doncaster Council enforces property licensing across its schemes. Letting a property without the required licence risks prosecution, civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, and rent repayment orders of up to 24 months — with letting agents jointly liable alongside landlords.
