All businesses that sell, distribute, prepare or store food must be registered. This includes things like restaurants, shops, supermarkets, canteens, delivery vehicles, village halls, market stalls and ice cream vans.
If you are starting a new food business you must register with us at least 28 days before you start trading. If you are the new owner of an existing food business you will need to register with us, even if the business has already been registered previously. Registration is free.
When you have sent us your application we will send you a letter or email to let you know we have received it. You do not need to do anything else unless we contact you for more information. Your business will then be registered on the food premises register.
Most food business premises need to be registered, but some don't. We will let you know when you send us your application.
Registered premises will be inspected regularly to make sure that they comply with food hygiene standards. The frequency of these visits will depend on the nature of the business. We will let you know how often this will be.
You can start trading as soon as you have registered - you don't need to wait for your first inspection.
The results of your inspection will also be added to the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme.
You must let us know if there are any changes to your business, such as a change of name, address or if the business becomes a limited company. You can do this online, or contact us for more information.
Make a change to your business
Some food businesses that manufacture food containing meat or meat products, dairy products, fish or shellfish may need to be approved as a food premises.