New landlord licensing rules to come into force across parts of Rotherham
Landlords in several parts of Rotherham will soon be required to hold a licence under a new selective licensing scheme approved by the council.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council has formally designated six areas of the borough for selective landlord licensing under the Housing Act 2004.
The designations were made on November 14, 2025, using powers under Section 80 of the Housing Act, and will come into effect on February 15, 2026.
They will remain in force until February 14, 2031, unless revoked earlier.
The areas covered by the selective licensing scheme are:
- Town centre, Eastwood, East Dene, Clifton and Boston Castle
- Masbrough and Kimberworth
- Thurcroft
- Dinnington
- Brinsworth
- Parkgate
The council says the designated areas are shown on plans accompanying the decision, which can be viewed online or inspected at council offices.
Under the scheme, landlords or property managers who control or manage rented homes in the designated areas will be required to obtain a selective licence.
The council warns that operating a property without a licence, or failing to comply with licence conditions, is an offence.
Landlords found to be in breach could face prosecution or a civil penalty of up to £30,000, alongside further enforcement action.
This may include being prevented from holding a licence in the future or being subject to a rent repayment order.
Landlords, managing agents and tenants can check whether a property is affected using the council’s interactive licensing map, and further guidance on the scheme is available on the council’s website.
Enquiries can also be made by emailing [email protected], calling 01709 822620, or writing to the Community Protection Unit at Riverside House, Main Street, Rotherham.