Search

How can we help?

Icon

What licences do you need to open a restaurant?

Opening and operating a restaurant can be an exciting venture, but it also involves navigating various legal requirements. One crucial aspect of operating a restaurant is obtaining the necessary licences and permits. These licences ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards, allowing the restaurant to operate smoothly and within the boundaries of the law. The Licensing Act 2003 establishes the statutory framework for regulating licensable activities in England and Wales. In this article, we will explore some of the key licences typically required to operate a restaurant.

1. Food Business Registration

This is a basic requirement for establishments looking to prepare, store, supply and sell food. If you plan to operate more than one site, you will need to register each property individually.

This registration is done through the local authority and should ideally be done at least 28 days before trading commences.

2. Music Licence

If you plan to offer live music or entertainment, you may need a separate licence. This ensures conformity with copyright laws and regulations governing public performances. Playing music without the appropriate licence is a copyright infringement.

In most cases the licence needed is known as ‘TheMusicLicence’ which can be applied for from PPL RRS.

3. Pavement licence

If you intend to have outdoor seating, a licence may be required. It typically includes guidelines for the use of public space, safety measures, and noise restrictions.

Applications for pavement licences should be made to the local authority that the property is located in.

These licences ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards, allowing the restaurant to operate smoothly and within the boundaries of the law.

4. Premises Licence

Frequently required for most pubs, restaurants and cafes a premises licence authorises the buying and selling of alcohol, offering entertainment, and serving food between 11am-5am. It is also worth remembering that alcohol cannot be consumed by persons under the age of 16 as part of a meal in a restaurant. Licensed premises are also required to have in place age verification policies.

To get a premises licence, you will need to either transfer an existing licence or apply for a new one with the local authority.

It is important to note that licensing requirements can vary depending on the location and type of establishment you operate. The licences listed above provide a general overview, and you may need further permissions such as Food Business Registration. Failing to obtain the required licences can result in fines, penalties, or even closure of your business. By obtaining and maintaining the appropriate licences, you can create a safe and legally compliant environment for both your staff and customers. Contact our Commercial Property Solicitors for any help you might need with opening or managing your restaurant, pub or cafe.

 

About this article

Disclaimer
This information is for guidance purposes only and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking legal advice. Please refer to the full General Notices on our website.

About this article

Read, listen and watch our latest insights

art
  • 04 June 2025
  • Corporate and M&A

Authorised Corporate Service Providers – what you need to know!

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA 2023) intends to enhance the transparency of corporate structures with an aim to reduce economic crime.

art
  • 04 June 2025
  • Privacy and Data Protection

Decrypting the ICO’s Draft Updated Guidance On Encryption

Where data breaches are easily achieved by human error, encryption not only offers a secure way of sending personal data, but also provides another layer of protection if a data breach was to occur.

Pub
  • 27 May 2025
  • Corporate and M&A

Thinking of exiting your business? Part 3

In the third and final episode of our three-part podcast series, join Stuart Mullins and Nicky Goringe Larkin as they discuss the sectors that are currently popular for business exits, as well as those that may have difficulty attracting buyers.

art
  • 27 May 2025
  • Privacy and Data Protection

Extension of UK adequacy: The European Data Protection Board adopts the European Commission’s decision

Earlier this year, the European Commission adopted an extension of the two 2021 adequacy decisions with the UK for a period of six months, until 27 December 2025.

art
  • 21 May 2025
  • Immigration

UK Immigration 2025: Essential Updates for Employers

In our most recent and timely webinar held on 7 May 2025, the immigration law experts here at Clarkslegal LLP provided employers with a critical update on recent and upcoming changes to UK immigration policies and laws.

art
  • 21 May 2025
  • Employment

The Rise of Side Hustles and Polygamous Working

In the evolving world of work, the rise of side hustles and “polygamous working” is reshaping the employment landscape in the UK.