What will the Act require?
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, is intended to improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK. The Act requires certain premises and events to ensure steps have been taken to prepare for potential terrorist attacks and get ready to help keep people safe in the event of an attack. In addition, certain larger premises and events will be required to consider and, where appropriate, take steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism. Those responsible for certain premises and events must take appropriate action to reduce the risk of harm to their workers and the public. To ensure a proportionate approach, it is expected that procedures and measures that are reasonably practicable are put in place. The legislation establishes a tiered approach linked to the different uses of premises and the number of individuals it is reasonable to expect may be present at the same time at the particular premises or events. The requirements vary accordingly, acknowledging that larger venues and events may be impacted to a greater extent by an attack and should be expected to do more.
Which premises are in scope?
Premises that satisfy the following four criteria fall within scope of the Act:
- There is at least one building (or the premises are in a building);
- The premises are wholly or mainly used for one or more of the uses specified at Schedule 1 to the Act, e.g. a restaurant or a shop;
- It is reasonable to expect that at least 200 individuals may be present at least occasionally; and
- The premises are not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act
If 800 or more individuals may be expected, the premises will be enhanced tier premises unless the Act says otherwise.
For more detailed information on Premises please refer to the following factsheet: Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: Scope (Premises) - GOV.UK
What events are within scope?
An event that satisfies the following criteria fall within scope of the Act:
- It will take place at premises within section 3(1)(a) of the Act, including land without buildings, that are not enhanced duty premises (or part of enhanced duty premises);
- The relevant premises are accessible to members of the public for the purpose of the event;
- It is reasonable to expect that there will be at least 800 individuals present for the event at once at some point during it;
- There will be measures to check entry conditions are met, such as a ticket checks; and
- The event is not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act.
For more detailed information on Events please refer to the following factsheet: Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: Scope (events) - GOV.UK
What is captured by Schedule 2 and why is it necessary to exclude these premises?
Schedule 2 provides exclusions for certain types of premises, such as those for certain transport premises and premises occupied by Parliament and the devolved legislatures both of which have different protective frameworks in place. It also excludes some open-access premises which might otherwise be captured within scope, e.g. parks. Premises that meet the conditions set out in Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Act are not “qualifying premises” under the legislation.
Standard Tier
If you or your organisation will be responsible for standard tier premises under the Act, find out more about the simple activities you will be required to undertake under Martyn's Law.
Enhanced Tier
If you or your organisation will be responsible for enhanced duty tier premises or a qualifying event under the Act, find out more about the activities you will be required to undertake under Martyn's Law.
Reasonable Figure
How are premises expected to assess a reasonable figure for expected attendance? A range of methods can be used to make a reasonable assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about the Act? We have created a list of FAQs and answers to a range of commonly asked queries.