Food business registration
Information about the registration of a food business, which is a legal requirement. You can register online, or download an application form and return it to us.
What is food business registration?
If you are starting a new food business or taking over an existing one then you must register your premises with us at least 28 days before you start operating.
Registration applies to most types of food business, including catering businesses run from home and mobile or temporary premises, such as market stalls and vans.
If you have more than one premises, you will need to register all of them.
Registration is free.
What happens to the information?
We maintain a register of food business premises. The register contains the address and the type of business operated in each premises, and is available as a public document.
Notifying us of changes
Once you have registered with the council you only need to notify us if there is a change in ownership, location of the business, a substantial change in activities has occurred from when you originally registerted or if you cease operating.
How to register
You can apply online:
- Register a food business with Lancaster City Council
- Application to change a food premises registration
- Food business registration guidance notes
Last updated: 29 June 2022