Martyn’s Law standard tier vs enhanced tier
Martyn’s Law has two tiers based on how many people can be expected at once. Most pubs, halls, churches and clubs fall in the standard tier, which is about procedures, not equipment.
Side by side
| Standard tier | Enhanced tier | |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Premises with 200 to 799 people | Premises with 800 or more, and qualifying events |
| Procedures | Evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication | The same, plus public protection measures such as physical security and monitoring |
| Notify the SIA | Yes | Yes |
| Written records | Not required, but recommended | Must document compliance and give it to the SIA |
| Designated senior individual | Not required | Required where the responsible person is a company or organisation |
| Maximum penalty | £10,000 | £18 million or 5% of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is higher |
What standard tier means in practice
Written procedures that your team knows, practice so they work on the night, and a notification to the regulator. No physical changes or equipment are required, and duties apply so far as reasonably practicable for your venue.
How the SIA will enforce it
The SIA can make information requests, carry out inspections (usually with at least 72 hours’ notice) and issue compliance and penalty notices. Its focus is on whether you have taken reasonable steps to comply.
Questions people ask
Can a venue move between tiers?
Yes, if its reasonably expected numbers change. Recheck your figure if you extend, add a function room or change how you operate.
Is Smallprint suitable for the enhanced tier?
Smallprint is built for the standard tier. Enhanced-tier premises need more than procedures and should get specialist advice.
Sources
- Foot Anstey: Martyn’s Law after the final statutory guidance
- Travers Smith: prepare now for implementation in spring 2027
- SIA: Martyn’s Law, the SIA’s new regulatory role
This guide is general information to help you prepare. It is not legal advice.