What licences might a catering business require?

Most of the licences you will require to run your restaurant or catering business are issued by the local authority. Before you even begin trading, you are obliged to register your premises with the local authority Environmental Health Service. You must do this at least 28 days before opening, and the rule applies to any type of food business, whether you have dedicated premises or are running the business from home, private premises (e.g. a B&B), or from a stall or van.

You also need to apply for local authority licensing if you are:

- Selling or supplying alcohol
- Selling hot food between 11pm and 5am
- Putting on any entertainment (music, dancing, theatre, cinema, etc)
- Selling food from a stall or van

If you are uncertain of your need to apply for a licence, you can contact a licensing solicitor for legal advice.

If you are selling food, you have specific responsibilities to safeguard your customers. There are rules governing cleanliness of the building and hygienic preparation of food. Staff should have facilities for washing and changing their clothes on site.

Running a business requires you to apply for other permits, licences and registration, regardless of the nature of goods you are selling. You may have to pay business rates, research specialist waste disposal, register as self-employed for tax and VAT purposes, or apply for planning permission if you are changing the nature of the business premises. Always seek advice from your local authority and HM Revenue & Customs, and be aware of your legal responsibilities to protect the health and safety of your employees and the public. You are highly advised to seek legal advice from a solicitor regarding all these aspects as well. An employment solicitor can advise you on the relevant health and safety laws and on employment law in general.

For specific advice on food safety and hygiene, contact the Food Standards Agency or your local authority Environmental Health team.

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