Naming and Approvals Committee (NAC)

The Naming and Approvals Committee (NAC) manages requests for government domain names.

The Naming and Approvals Committee (NAC) considers applications for third-level .gov.uk domain names, for example, ‘mydomain.gov.uk’, when the .gov.uk Domains Team has rejected the application.

Application process

The Domains Team initially reviews all applications for .gov.uk domain names. This team gives approval for a public sector organisation to use a .gov.uk domain name based on whether:

• the applying organisation is eligible for a .gov.uk domain name
• they have permission from the person accountable for the domain name
• the identity of the Registrant can be verified and confirmed to be working for the applying organisation
• the domain name meets the naming rules
• there is a business justification for another third-level .gov.uk domain when an organisation already has on
• the provision of another third-level .gov.uk domain will not cause confusion to users

The Domains Team will work constructively with the applicant to find the most appropriate type of domain name for their needs. In many cases it is more appropriate to create a subdomain of an existing .gov.uk domain. 

Appeals to the NAC

When the Domains Team rejects an application, the applicant may appeal the decision to the NAC. Appeals must be raised through the applicant’s Registrar.

To raise an appeal to the NAC, the Registrar must email appeals@domains.gov.uk.

An appeal may proceed only when the rejection was on the basis of:
- failing to meet the naming rules - the organisation already having a third-level .gov.uk domain

The Domains Team aims to minimise the volume of appeals to the NAC by checking each application thoroughly prior to issuing a rejection. 

Responsibilities of the NAC

The NAC is responsible for:

• making the final decision when there is a valid appeal within 5 working days
• working with the Domains Team as required to identify the need for changes to the naming rules, for example to include identifiers for new categories of organisation
• meeting regularly (no less than every 6 months) to onboard new members, identify and address any recurring issues and ensure that all members are working to a common standard
• reviewing the naming rules on an annual basis

If the NAC is unable to make a majority decision within 5 working days then the original decision of the Domains Team stands.

Membership

NAC members are appointed by the Public Sector Domains Board. 

The Public Sector Domains board endeavours to ensure that the NAC includes representation from:

• central government
• devolved administrations
• local government