SIA Sports Ground Exemption – Policy Guidance

The SGSA has prepared new policy guidance regarding the existing exemption in the Private Security Industry Act 2001 for in-house staff at sports grounds undertaking Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensable activities:

SGSA policy guidance on SIA sport exemption (PDF) (9 May 2023)

The new guidance has clarified the need for vetting of in-house stewards who carry out security functions, such as searching on entry or ejecting spectators who are in breach of ground regulations.

This has been a legal requirement since 2006 but is not well understood within the sports sector (the same requirement applies at all sports grounds subject to a General Safety Certificate, not just football).

To support clubs and local authorities in meeting the requirements of this guidance, we have developed a question and answer sheet which provides further clarity around this complex subject.

SIA Exemption Policy Guidance – questions and answers (PDF)

The SGSA and SIA have also previously developed a document explaining when a SIA licence is needed at a sports ground.

Understanding the steward exemption (PDF)

Details of the legislation involved in this exemption can be found on the Stewarding and SIA licence page.