Martyn's Law is the common name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, which received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025. It requires many venues and events to take proportionate steps to reduce the risk of harm from a terrorist attack. This page is general information, not legal advice. Always read the current guidance on GOV.UK.
Who It Applies To
It applies to publicly accessible premises where large numbers of people can gather, and the duties depend on how many people may be present at the same time:
- Standard tier: premises where 200 to 799 people may be present at the same time.
- Enhanced tier: larger premises where 800 or more people may be present at the same time, and some larger events.
Schools, colleges and places of worship are in the standard tier even when more than 800 people may be present. Check the statutory guidance to see where your venue or event falls.
What The Duties Look Like
Standard tier duties are intended to be low cost. They centre on sensible procedures and awareness, such as knowing how to lock down, how to evacuate and how to move people to safer places. The enhanced tier adds to these. Larger venues and events must also have proportionate security measures, a named person with senior responsibility and a written plan. Depending on the premises, measures can include bag search policies, CCTV and monitoring, and vehicle checks.
The SIA's Role
The Security Industry Authority is the regulator. It can issue compliance notices, restriction notices and monetary penalties where there is serious or persistent non-compliance.
When Does It Start?
The Act includes an implementation period of at least 24 months from Royal Assent. The Government has said the duties will not begin earlier than April 2027, and the Home Office published its statutory guidance in April 2026. Dates can change, so confirm the latest position on GOV.UK.
How A Security Team Can Help
A good security supplier helps you put the plan into practice: controlled entry, search procedures, trained officers and stewards who know the evacuation and lockdown routes, briefings before every event, and clear reporting. Our teams work at venues such as Wembley Stadium and London Stadium, and our event and stadium security service is built around plans agreed in advance with the organiser. If you would like to talk about your venue, get in touch.