SIA Wraps Up Its Consultation on Martyn's Law Guidance

The Security Industry Authority (SIA), the regulator named in the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, has closed its consultation on the guidance it is preparing. The consultation gave the public and organisations a chance to comment on draft material before it is finalised. With responses now in, the SIA can review the feedback and work towards published guidance.

This is a step in building the practical advice that pub landlords, church wardens, hall managers and event organisers will be able to rely on. The guidance is intended to explain how the duties will work in everyday terms. It is not yet finalised, and the SIA's notification process is not live. The duties themselves are still expected to commence in spring 2027, with the exact date to be confirmed.

Standard tier covers premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time. Enhanced tier covers 800 or more. The count includes your staff. Knowing roughly which tier your premises may fall into is a sensible first step while the detail is being settled.

There is nothing you must act on today. Keep an eye out for the SIA's finalised guidance when it is published, as it should give a clearer picture of what is expected. In the meantime, you can start thinking about your typical numbers and who would take the lead on planning. This is preparation, not a legal requirement, and it is not a substitute for professional advice.