Pubs and bars could have to pay up to £8,500 a year for litter collections, extra policing and street stewards under a scheme being introduced in Middlesbrough.
The scheme has been angrily opposed by the British Beer and Pubs Association, which says it is looking into its legality, and the British Institute of Innkeeping,
However, it has seen wide support from residents and councillors, bringing fears that if it proves successful it will be taken up by councils across the UK.
The charge would be made both on any newly-built pub or bar or any outlet that has applied for planning permission for alterations.
The British Beer and Pub Association said: "Pubs already pay significant amounts in tax to both local and central government to supply these services - in fact our figures show that over 30p in every £1 that comes over the bar goes straight out the door in tax.
"Local authorities should acknowledge that pubs have attracted businesses and tourists and brought new life back to city centres and they should not be penalised for it."
The BBPA said it would be looking into the legality of the council's plans to force businesses to pay up.
The British Institute of Innkeeping said: "It is ridiculous charging licensees for services that should already be paid for through business rates and tax. The fear is that other local authorities will now follow suit on this and I just hope that the trade is included in any consultation."
Middlesbrough council said: "The kind of businesses we are talking about, which operate late at night and attract large numbers of people, can cause a nuisance to residents and make work for the council, police and other agencies - however well they may be run.
"It is absolutely right they should pay towards extra policing, security or clean-up costs."
The scheme has been angrily opposed by the British Beer and Pubs Association, which says it is looking into its legality, and the British Institute of Innkeeping,
However, it has seen wide support from residents and councillors, bringing fears that if it proves successful it will be taken up by councils across the UK.
The charge would be made both on any newly-built pub or bar or any outlet that has applied for planning permission for alterations.
The British Beer and Pub Association said: "Pubs already pay significant amounts in tax to both local and central government to supply these services - in fact our figures show that over 30p in every £1 that comes over the bar goes straight out the door in tax.
"Local authorities should acknowledge that pubs have attracted businesses and tourists and brought new life back to city centres and they should not be penalised for it."
The BBPA said it would be looking into the legality of the council's plans to force businesses to pay up.
The British Institute of Innkeeping said: "It is ridiculous charging licensees for services that should already be paid for through business rates and tax. The fear is that other local authorities will now follow suit on this and I just hope that the trade is included in any consultation."
Middlesbrough council said: "The kind of businesses we are talking about, which operate late at night and attract large numbers of people, can cause a nuisance to residents and make work for the council, police and other agencies - however well they may be run.
"It is absolutely right they should pay towards extra policing, security or clean-up costs."
