Martyn's Law is overseen by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Its stated approach is to support, advise and guide duty-holders — but it has real powers for serious or persistent non-compliance. Here's how enforcement works and when it begins.
The regulator: the SIA
The SIA is the named regulator for the Act. It will provide guidance and support to help duty-holders understand and meet their obligations, and it will operate the notification process that in-scope premises use to register.
Inspection and enforcement powers
Where there is serious or persistent non-compliance, the SIA can take enforcement action — including compliance notices (requiring you to put things right), monetary penalties, and — against enhanced-tier premises only — restriction notices. Certain failures, particularly at the enhanced tier, can also be criminal offences.
Penalties
The headline figures — up to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue, plus daily penalties of up to £50,000 — apply to the most serious enhanced-tier breaches. For standard-tier premises the maximum monetary penalty is £10,000, with daily penalties of up to £500 for continued non-compliance — and the emphasis is firmly on support and getting things right, with sanctions reserved for serious or persistent failures.
Timeline to commencement
The Act received Royal Assent in April 2025; statutory guidance followed in April 2026; and enforcement is expected in spring 2027, after an implementation period of at least two years. The practical takeaway: prepare now, and review before commencement so you're ready when the duties take effect.
Common questions
Who enforces Martyn's Law?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the regulator, with powers including compliance notices, restriction notices and monetary penalties for serious or persistent non-compliance.
When does enforcement begin?
Enforcement is expected in spring 2027, following the implementation period after Royal Assent in April 2025.
Do I need to notify the SIA now?
The notification process opens before commencement. Prepare your premises details and responsible person now so you can notify promptly when it goes live.
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