When is a police officer or licensing inspector permitted to enter the premises?

A police officer or licensing inspector is permitted to enter the premises when they believe an offense is occurring. This authority is rooted in the necessity to uphold the law and ensure compliance with regulations that govern licensed premises. If there are reasonable grounds to suspect illegal activities, officers are empowered to take immediate action to investigate and potentially intervene, as this can prevent further infractions or protect public safety.

The other scenarios reflect situations in which an officer may have limited authority or may need additional justification for entry. For instance, entering only during business hours might unnecessarily restrict police action if an offense is occurring outside of those times. The requirement for a warrant may delay critical response time in urgent situations, and responding solely to a complaint may not cover the proactive measures needed to address offenses observed without explicit complaints. Thus, the authority to enter based on belief of an offense encompasses the flexibility required for law enforcement to maintain order effectively.