Regulations for food businesses
In order to operate your food business lawfully, you will need to comply with certain health and safety regulations.
Licences and certificates
Business licences
Formal and informal businesses handling and preparing food for sale to the public are required to obtain a business licence. Various other businesses that occupy a physical space, such as entertainment venues and massage parlours, also require a business licence.
Certificate of Acceptability
If you are trading in food or beverages, you will also need a Certificate of Acceptability. A Certificate of Acceptability proves your premises are ‘acceptable’ and meet the safety and cleanliness requirements to serve food to the public.
Follow the City Connect links below to find out how to apply for a business licence or Certificate of Acceptability.
Health requirements for businesses
For all food and safety requirements and regulations, please see Food safety and hygiene requirements. Please also refer to the
National Food and Beverages Regulations – the City enforces these regulations through its policies and by-laws.
In your standard business licence application, you will have to let us know the details of your business. For example, if you will be serving meat, if your activities are likely to have a noise impact, or if you require a designated smoking area. Your licence will then be issued according to your operational requirements.
Serving on pavements and public walkways
The City gives permission to restaurants, coffee shops, delis and fast food outlets to place tables and chairs on pavements, pedestrian malls and squares. The permit is only issued if no negative comments are received from the City in terms of pedestrian and vehicle access and planning and design.
Informal trading
Informal traders have to adhere to very strict rules to ensure food safety for all at all times. If you are an informal trader, please consult our
Rules for Informal Traders to make sure you are working with us to maintain good hygiene and food safety standards.
If you are trading in food or beverages, you will also need a certificate of acceptability. A certificate of acceptability proves your premises are ‘acceptable’ and meet the safety and cleanliness requirements to serve food to the public. You have to apply for an informal trading permit and a certificate of acceptability separately.
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