Describe the event before choosing a licence
Record the title and version, date, venue, audience and whether admission or another related charge applies. A free event is still a public screening question. GOV.UK explicitly includes film clubs, community cinemas and social film nights, and says the need for permission does not disappear because tickets are free.
Separate the permissions involved
The government guidance distinguishes copyright-owner permission, possible council premises permission, TV licensing and a commercial subscription where relevant. One document does not necessarily settle the others. Buying a disc or paying for a personal streaming account establishes access to a copy, not automatically permission to use that copy at the planned public event.
Ask about the particular title and use
GOV.UK points film organisers toward distributors and relevant licensing bodies. Filmbankmedia’s options distinguish a specific-title event from broader background-use arrangements. Check the actual terms and represented titles for the planned screening rather than assuming a licence advertised for one context covers every film, venue and audience. An old film is not automatically outside copyright.
Confirm arrangements before promising the event
Keep the granted scope and conditions with the event record, including the version and permitted playback route. Ask the local council whether premises permission applies to the particular venue and event. A clear permissions enquiry is easier to resolve than an advert promising a screening before the rights and delivery method are established. No screening or external enquiry is performed by this article.
Questions, answered
Does free admission automatically remove public-screening permission requirements?
No. GOV.UK explicitly says it does not.
Does a TV Licence automatically permit a public film screening?
No. The government guidance separates those questions.