UK Council Directory

Select a home nation to browse 361 councils with HMO licensing information.

361 councils
48,040 licensed HMOs
1 with additional licensing
1 with selective licensing

About HMO licensing in the UK

The UK has four home nations—England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland—each with its own local authorities responsible for HMO licensing and planning. England has the most councils and the widest variety of additional and selective licensing schemes.

Use this directory to find your local council, check HMO licensing requirements, and access public HMO registers where available.

Learn more about HMO licensing →

By home nation

England

London boroughs and regional councils · 296 councils · 48,040 licensed HMOs · 1 additional licensing · 1 selective licensing

Wales

Local authorities in Wales · 22 councils

Scotland

Scottish local authorities · 32 councils

Northern Ireland

Local councils in Northern Ireland · 11 councils

Frequently asked questions

How do I find my local council for HMO licensing?
Select your home nation above (England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland), then browse by region. Each council page shows licence requirements, register data, and planning links.
Do HMO licensing rules differ across the UK?
Yes. England and Wales follow the Housing Act 2004, but Wales has the Renting Homes (Wales) Act. Scotland has separate HMO licensing rules (often 3+ occupants). Northern Ireland has its own framework. Always confirm with your local council.
What is additional HMO licensing?
Additional licensing extends mandatory HMO rules to smaller properties (e.g. 3–4 occupants). Councils can designate areas where this applies. Check your council page for scheme details.

Summary

Councils361
Licensed HMOs48,040
Additional licensing1
Selective licensing1