Martyn’s Law: frequently asked questions
Short, sourced answers to the questions venue operators ask most. For depth, each answer links to a full guide in our resources section.
Aligned to NaCTSO guidance · Last updated 2026-06-12
What is Martyn's Law?
Martyn's Law is the common name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. It requires those responsible for certain publicly accessible premises and events in the UK to have procedures, and in some cases measures, in place to reduce the risk of harm from a terrorist attack. It is named after Martyn Hett, killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. Read our plain-English guide.
When does Martyn's Law come into force?
The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 but its duties are not yet in force. The Government committed to an implementation period of at least 24 months, so commencement is expected from 2027. No date has been confirmed. The Home Office published statutory guidance in April 2026 to help venues prepare.
Does Martyn's Law apply to my venue?
It applies to premises used for public activities (such as hospitality, entertainment, retail, leisure, worship, healthcare or education) where 200 or more individuals, including staff, are reasonably expected to be present at the same time. Use our free eligibility checker for an indicative answer, or read our detailed guide.
What is the difference between the standard and enhanced tiers?
Premises expecting 200 to 799 people fall in the standard tier: notify the SIA and have evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication procedures in place. Premises expecting 800 or more fall in the enhanced tier: everything in the standard tier plus documented public protection measures, a compliance document provided to the SIA, and a designated senior individual. See our guides to the standard tier and the enhanced tier.
Do staff count towards the 200 person threshold?
Yes. The count includes everyone reasonably expected to be present at the same time: visitors, employees, contractors and volunteers.
What is invacuation?
Invacuation means moving people away from danger to a safer place within the premises, rather than evacuating them outside. It is used when the threat is outside the building. See our guide to writing your procedures.
Who enforces Martyn's Law?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA). Its stated approach is to support and guide venues first, with enforcement powers (compliance notices, restriction notices and penalties) reserved for serious or persistent non-compliance. Read about preparing for enforcement.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Once in force, the SIA will be able to issue penalties of up to £10,000 for standard duty premises and up to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue, whichever is greater, for enhanced duty premises and qualifying events, plus daily penalties for continuing breaches of notices.
Does Martyn's Law require venues to hire security staff or buy equipment?
No. Standard tier duties are about procedures, not equipment, physical alterations or staffing. Enhanced tier premises must take reasonably practicable security measures, but the Act does not prescribe specific equipment.
Are churches and schools covered by Martyn's Law?
Places of worship, childcare and primary, secondary and further education premises with a capacity of 200 or more are covered, but they remain in the standard tier even if 800 or more people are expected. Higher education premises follow the normal tiering.
Do outdoor events fall under Martyn's Law?
They can. An event qualifies where 800 or more people, including staff, are expected at the same time at some point during the event and entry is controlled by tickets, payment, passes or membership checks. Qualifying events carry enhanced tier duties.
What should venues do now, before the law is in force?
Confirm whether you are in scope and which tier applies, identify your responsible person, record a capacity assessment, draft your four procedures and brief your staff. Our free eligibility checker is the place to start.
Still not sure where you stand?
Our free checker tells you whether Martyn’s Law is likely to apply to your venue and which tier you would fall in.
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