If you are starting or operating a business in the Broadland or South Norfolk area where you produce, transport, handle or supply food or drink on a regular basis, you must comply with food safety requirements and register your business with us. This must be completed at least 28 days prior to starting a new food business or taking over an existing food business.

This includes activities in commercial or domestic properties as well as activities which take place on a voluntary basis.

There is no need to register for one-off events or for certain low risk activities which are carried out on a small scale, infrequent basis. For example, cake making by an individual on less than 12 occasions a year or less than once per month. If you're not sure if you need to register, contact the food safety team using the details at the bottom of the page.

If you have a mobile catering business and keep the vehicle at a Broadland or South Norfolk address overnight, you must also register the business with us, even if you live outside of the district yourself.

The Food Standards Agency business guidance provides information on how to set up your business in compliance with food safety requirements to ensure the food you produce is safe to eat and you should look at these details before you register your business. UK Hospitality have produced an industry guide to good hygiene practice which provides information on legal obligations for caterers and the practical requirements to comply with food hygiene law. The guide also offers advice to operators on good practice, which although is not a legal requirement, is likely to contribute to the overall achievement of food safety and customer satisfaction. Please also see our general food safety advice page to explore additional topics to consider when running a food business.

How to register

Registration is now fully digital, handled by the Food Standards Agency via GOV.UK at Register a Food Business. By completing the online form and pressing submit, we will receive your registration.

Once registered, we can offer advice and guidance in relation to food safety and hygiene to help you operate your business. We also visit the business to undertake an inspection to identify how safely food is being prepared and produced.

The frequency of visits by officers will depend on the type of business along with their practices and procedures.

If you use premises in more than one local authority area, you must register with each council separately.

Food manufacturers and approved premises

Businesses which process or manufacturer food that is of animal origin and sell to other businesses, not directly to members of the public, may need approval.

Animal origin includes meat, fish, poultry, dairy and eggs.

Approval means food businesses must comply with the relevant food law and the food they produce must carry an identification number so it can be traced back to them.

The majority of food businesses such as caterers and retailers will not require approval.