Working together

  • Contacting the council
    Our Customer Service Points are open to walk up customers on a part-time basis, and for pre-booked appointments
  • Licensing
    Find out about changes to applications for alchohol and other licenses
  • Planning and Building Standards
    Find out about changes to how we are processing applications and dealing with inspections for planning and building standards

Changes to the licensing process – COVID 19

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Scottish Government has introduced some changes to the licensing process which mainly relate to the extension of timescales. Updated information is available below. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the licensing section either by e-mail at licensing@argyll-bute.gov.uk or by phone on 01546 604128.

Changes to alcohol licensing due to the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020

As well as changes to the processes for alcohol licensing, this will also affect those who currently hold licences as detailed below or those making applications in relation to:

  • Boat hire
  • Booking office
  • Metal dealer
  • Knife dealer
  • Late hours catering
  • Market operator
  • Private hire operator
  • Private hire driver
  • Taxi operator
  • Taxi driver
  • Public entertainment
  • Second hand goods dealers
  • Street trader
  • Tattooing and skin piercing
  • Window cleaner

These are known as Civic Government licenses.

Changes to Civic Government licensing in terms of the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020

Housing Support services

There are changes to how you can currently access Housing Support Services, due to the offices of HELP (housing support for 16 - 24 year olds in Bute and Cowal) and Carr Gomm (housing support for all ages across Argyll and Bute, and over 25s in Bute and Cowal) being currently closed

You can still access these services by phoning their dedicated support lines - find our full details in our Housing Support section

Building Standards and Planning and Development Services

Council offices remain closed to members of the public, following government advice on the actions we must all take to stay safe from coronavirus. We would ask anyone therefore wishing to submit documents/applications that this is done either via the Scottish Government Portal or electronically to the appropriate area office

You can find out more details of the phased resumption of site visits, and how to get in touch with Planning and Building Standards, submit comments on applications, submit casework for applications and get pre-application advice,  here on our website:

Coronavirus service changes - Planning

Coronavirus service changes - Building Standards