Doncaster HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Doncaster — do I need one?

Doncaster has 1 licensing scheme on our register, on top of the national mandatory HMO rules. This page summarises the active and upcoming schemes, links to the council source, and explains what you need to do as a landlord.

Active and upcoming schemes

Sourced from Doncaster announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

SelectiveEffective: 1 March 2022 to 28 February 2027

Doncaster Selective Licensing — Hexthorpe

Selective licensing covering the Hexthorpe area only. Previous additional HMO scheme ended September 2023 and has not been renewed.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Doncaster-specific scheme, you also need to comply with the national mandatory HMO licensing rules under the Housing Act 2004:

  • 5 or more occupants from 2 or more separate households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toilet → mandatory HMO licence required.
  • A household = single person, couple, or family unit. Unrelated sharers each count as a separate household.
  • Unlicensed HMOs face civil penalties up to £30,000, Rent Repayment Orders (up to 12 months' rent).
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Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Doncaster schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with City of Doncaster Council before letting or applying for a licence.