Starting or changing a food business

A food safety officer will visit your premises to carry out a food hygiene inspection. You will then be given an inspection report and awarded a score as part of the food hygiene rating scheme.

If consumers wish to see the food safety officer’s report on which this rating is based, they can request this from the local authority. They can do this by sending an email to the address below. The local authority will consider the request and will usually send you a copy of the report. In some cases, the local authority may decide that they cannot do so but will let you know this and explain why.

• Planning and building control

How to Register your Food Business

Most food businesses are legally required to register with their Local Authority at least 28 days before they begin to trade (there is no charge for registration).

Registration allows us to maintain an up-to-date list of all premises storing, preparing, selling or distributing food.

Registration takes effect once the completed form is received. The name, address and type of business carried out will be entered onto a register which is open to public inspection on request.

Some manufacturers handling products of animal origin may need to be approved by the local authority or the Meat Hygiene Service, rather than registered. If you are uncertain whether your business needs to be approved or registered, contact  [email protected] 

Apply online 

You can Register your Food Business online.

•  Apply for / amend registration of a food business establishment  

For further assistance, telephone: 0300 373 3730

After we’ve received your form

A food safety officer will visit your premises to carry out a food hygiene inspection. You will then be given an inspection report and awarded a score as part of the food hygiene rating scheme.

Your rating and inspection report will be made available on our website food hygiene ratings listings to help consumers make an informed choice when deciding where to eat or buy food