BBC clarifies exactly when you need a TV Licence to watch Netflix

Knowing exactly when you need to have a TV Licence is more important than ever as one of the key players in the conversation - none other than Netflix - diversifies what it offer its millions of customers.

Guidance was issued by the BBC last week with an important message for Netflix users when it comes to paying the annual fee, which currently stands at £169.50 a year.

And it is pretty important guidance if, for example, you plan on watching the Netflix exclusive boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson.

The same goes for WWE fans who will soon be watching their weekly episodes of Raw and SmackDown on the streaming service following on from a deal with Netflix values at $5 billion (£3.99 billion).

What is Netflix doing?

Netflix is doing more and more live events as part of its offerings to subscribers.

One of the most recent events was The Netflix Slam, a tennis special between Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz streamed live from Las Vegas.

There's a tonne of new content coming up too, with The Roast of Tom Brady streaming live on Netflix on 5 May.

And then there is the aforementioned Jake Paul and Mike Tyson boxing bout, which will be streaming on the streaming service later this summer on 20 July.

A smart TV remote that can play Netflix. (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)

Why does this matter when it comes to the TV Licence?

The rules on when you need a TV Licence are pretty clear.

You have always needed a TV Licence when it comes to watching live television.

That can be when it is broadcast live or when you record it to watch at a later date, such as Match of the Day on BBC One or the latest Super Sunday matches to catch up with the latest Premier League action.

Watching both of these either live or on recorded catch up would need a TV Licence.

Rules are very specific when it comes to Netflix and the TV Licence. (Getty Stock Image)

How does Netflix fit in to this, then?

The BBC told LADbible last week that if you're watching any live event on Netflix, you need a TV Licence.

It said: "A TV Licence is needed to watch live content on streaming services, watch or record a TV programme on any channel and when using BBC iPlayer.

"Further information is available on the TV Licensing website or via the customer services team, who can help with any queries."

The Roast of Tom Brady is a Netflix live event airing soon. (Netflix)

What if I don't watch Netflix's live events?

This is where it gets interesting, with LADbible asking the BBC this exact question given the potential confusion that surrounded paying the fee.

A spokesperson said: "To clarify, you do not need a TV Licence to watch on-demand programmes on Netflix and other streaming services like it - only if you watch live content."

The same goes for YouTube, with BBC guidance saying: 'If you are watching a TV programme live on YouTube, you need to be covered by a TV Licence.

"A licence is not required to view user generated content, clips and videos on YouTube. This includes live streamed content that is not part of a television broadcast. Or being broadcast at the same time by other means."

The same also goes for Prime Video. If you watch its live broadcasts, such as the Premier League, you'll need to cough up for the licence fee. Otherwise, carry on as normal.