Film classification
How to classify your film
Films that are to be shown to a public audience must be given a classification rating.
If you're a film-maker or promoter, you can apply to either:
- the British Board for Film Classification
- the local authority for the area where the film is being shown
Apply for a film classification
To apply for the classification or reclassification of a film to be shown in the London Borough of Bexley, you must make your request in writing at least 28 working days before the film is to be shown.
The London Borough of Bexley can only guarantee a film will be classified in time for it to be exhibited if it receives the request within the 28 working day period.
You must provide the following information:
- name, address and contact details of film maker
- film details, such as title, a written synopsis of the film and the length of the film
- details of where and when the film is to be exhibited
- the certification sought
- confirmation of whether your film has been classified by the BBFC and if so, what rating it was given
- pay the relevant fee (see below for current fees)
- provide a copy of the film that does not require specialist software and is of a good quality
- agree to us retaining the film
- foreign language/subtitles – if the film is not in English an additional fee will be required for an interpreter. Further details may be sought
Where to send your request
Your request should be sent to the Licensing Partnership at:
Licensing Partnership
Council Offices
Argyle Road
Sevenoaks
Kent
TN13 1HG
Phone: 01732 227004
Email: licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk
Fees from 1 January 2025
| Type of film | Fees (£) |
|---|---|
| Standard film | 80* |
| Film festival (1 to 25 films) | 100* |
| Film festival (26 to 50 films) | 120* |
| Film festival (51 or more films) | 140* |
| Foreign language film** | 95* |
*Film viewing fee £1.60 per minute.
** Foreign language films with or without subtitles will be subject to an additional charge and will be available on request.
The administration fee applicable to additional requests is £25.
Reconsideration of the film classification decision (standard film) £1.85 per minute.
Foreign language films
The cost of the interpretation will be charged at an extra cost dependent on the length of the film and the language spoken. Any and all languages spoken within the film must be identified within the request so we can provide you with the additional cost as soon as possible.