SIC 56.10 102,450 enterprises in the UK
Restaurants and mobile food service activities
What you must comply with
Unique to restaurants and mobile food service activities
Premises licence (if selling alcohol or providing late-night refreshment)
Required if selling alcohol OR providing hot food/drink between 23:00-05:00. Separate regime in Scotland (Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005) and NI.
Personal licence (alcohol sales)
At least one personal licence holder must authorise each sale. Requires BIIAB Level 2 Award.
Street trading licence (mobile food)
Required for mobile food traders, food trucks, and market stalls. Each local authority has its own scheme.
Regulated entertainment (live/recorded music)
Deregulated for live music (audience <500) before 23:00 in licensed premises. Recorded music deregulated in same conditions.
Applies to all restaurants and mobile food service activities
Food business registration
Must register at least 28 days before opening. Separate registration in each LA area if multiple premises.
Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS)
Mandatory display in Wales and Northern Ireland. Voluntary display in England (but published online).
HACCP-based food safety management
Written food safety management system required. FSA 'Safer Food, Better Business' pack available for small businesses.
Allergen information for consumers
Must declare 14 major allergens. Natasha's Law (PPDS labelling) for pre-packed for direct sale.
Fire safety compliance
Fire risk assessment required. Responsible person must be designated. Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 added requirements for multi-occupied residential buildings.
Guidance for this activity
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Comply with mandatory food labelling and information requirements under UK and assimilated EU law.
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