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Martyn’s Law: information for parish and town councilsWhen will the requirements apply?Community halls and council buildingsCouncil events and outdoor spacesDownloads and practical resourcesNALC guidance for parish and town councilsLatest official guidance

Martyn’s Law: information for parish and town councils

Martyn’s Law—the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—aims to improve preparedness for terrorist attacks at certain public premises and events.

It is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

For parish and town councils, the legislation may be relevant to community buildings, halls and events they operate or manage.  

When will the requirements apply?

The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025. Its main duties are not yet in force, and councils have time to understand the requirements and prepare.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA), which will regulate the legislation, currently expects commencement in spring 2027. Councils should check official updates for confirmation of the date. 





Community halls and council buildings

 A village hall, community centre or other council-operated building may fall within scope if its use and expected attendance meet the qualifying conditions.

Ownership alone does not determine responsibility. Councils should establish who controls the premises for the relevant use, particularly where a building is leased or managed by another organisation. 



Council events and outdoor spaces

 A village hall, community centre or other council-operated building may fall within scope if its use and expected attendance meet the qualifying conditions.

Ownership alone does not determine responsibility. Councils should establish who controls the premises for the relevant use, particularly where a building is leased or managed by another organisation. 



Downloads and practical resources

 The following Home Office resources explain Martyn’s Law and help councils consider whether their premises or events may fall within its scope.

The following Home Office resources explain Martyn’s Law and help councils consider whether their premises or events may fall within its scope.


Martyn’s Law: an overview

A short introduction to the legislation, its main requirements and who will be responsible.

Download: Martyn’s Law overview



Common questions and misconceptions

 

The myth buster addresses common misunderstandings about costs, responsibilities, training and preparing for the legislation.

Download: Martyn’s Law myth buster

Does your premises fall within scope?

 
A decision tree to help you assess whether a council building, community hall or other premises may fall within the standard or enhanced tier.

Download: Premises scope decision tree

Does your premises fall within scope?

 
A decision tree to help you assess whether a council building, community hall or other premises may fall within the standard or enhanced tier.

Download: Premises scope decision tree

Does your event fall within scope?

 

A decision tree explaining the qualifying conditions for events, including attendance numbers, public access and entry controls.

Download: Events scope decision tree


Preparing for Martyn’s Law

NALC guidance for parish and town councils

 

NALC’s July 2025 advice note provides background and preparation suggestions specifically for parish and town councils.

Download: NALC advice note – July 2025

This advice note predates publication of the Home Office statutory guidance. Please read it alongside the latest official guidance linked below.

Latest official guidance

Some downloadable resources refer to guidance that was still being developed when they were published. For the latest position, please consult: