Apply to become an approved food premises

How to apply

You can apply online using the GOV.UK website.

Apply online - Application for food premises approval

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Or you can download the application form below, complete it and return it to us.

Food premises approval - application form

When to apply

You will need approval before starting up the business and you must apply well in advance of your proposed start date.

If you think your food business may need to be approved, please contact us for advice using the contact details on the right of this page.

There is no fee for an application for food premises approval.

Information and evidence that you will need to provide

You need to provide the completed application form, along with specific documents, such as:

• A detailed plan of the premises
• A description of the food safety management system
• Your arrangements for waste collection and disposal
• Water supply testing
• Product testing
• Pest control
• Staff training
• Record keeping 
• Any proposed changes to your business
• Any other documentation that may be asked for by us

Inspections and assessments

Once we have received your application, we will contact you and arrange to visit your premises.
Please note, if your food business requires approval there are a number of requirements that must be met and you cannot start up until we have approved your food operation.

Next steps

We will look in-depth at your premises, processes and documents. If necessary, we will discuss any work you need to do to comply with the regulations.
If your business achieves the required standards, we will:

• Grant you approval
• Issue you with a unique approval number. This makes up part of your identification mark and must be applied to your products and documentation. It ensures that the products can be traced back to your company

Once we have approved your business, the approval will continue for the life of the business or until the legislation changes.

Change details of your food premises approval

You can change your details online using the GOV.UK website.

Change details of your food premises approval.

If we refuse your application

If we refuse your application, you can appeal against our decision to the local magistrates' court.