Registering as a food business

If you are starting a new food business, or taking over an existing one, you must register it with the The Royal Borough's Environmental Health team.

The law requires food businesses to register their premises with the local authority. This should be done at least 28 days prior to opening.

Registration is a very simple process and the registration form should only take a few minutes to complete. There is no charge to register premises and registration does not need to be renewed periodically. We cannot refuse to register a premises.

Registration is to provide us with information about the food premises in our area so that we can plan our inspections effectively.

Changes to registered premises

The only changes to a registered premises which we must be notified of are:

• a change of food business operator
• a change in the nature of the business
• closure of the business.

Late hours catering licence

Generally, although there are some exemptions, you also need a premises licence from the Royal Borough of Greenwich in order to provide refreshments between 11pm and 5am.

You will also need guidance on running a food business and food hygiene.

Before registration

Before registration, we suggest that you discuss your plans with our team, as you need to ensure that the food you sell is safe and that you are complying with food hygiene law.

We can then sort out any problems before you start trading. We are happy to visit premises, talk through your proposals, and advise on all aspects of food safety.

Food hygiene inspections

You will receive regular inspections from environmental health officers.

If you pass your inspection you will be given a Food Hygiene Award certificate to display. Customers can also check your status on the Food Hygiene Awards database held on this website.