The law and your business

Do I need to register my food business?

The short answer

Yes. Every business that sells, cooks, stores, handles, prepares or distributes food must register with its local council at least 28 days before trading. Registration is free and can't be refused.

Last checked 25 September 2026 against official guidance · see the sources.

Who needs to register

All types of food business, wherever they operate from, including:

restaurants, cafés, takeaways and pubs;
businesses run from home, such as home bakers and cake makers;
mobile units, market stalls and vans;
businesses that only sell food or drink online.

	The facts
When	At least 28 days before you start trading
Cost	Free
Can it be refused?	No
Where	Your local council, usually online through GOV.UK

What happens after you register

The council adds you to its inspection programme. Higher-risk businesses are seen first, so it can be several months before your first inspection, when you’ll get your food hygiene rating. Use that time to get your food safety system, records and training in place.

Official sources

Free record sheet: Opening & Closing Checks

Free to download and print, in 15 languages. No sign-up.

Get the free poster →

Food Safety & Hygiene for Catering: free practice course

Try the lessons and questions from our catering course for free. No card needed.

Try the free practice course →