Opening a new a food business can be daunting, whether or not you are doing it for the first time.
Our advice and information can help you navigate the process and let you know what is legally required.
For detailed guidance, visit the Food Standards Agency website.
On this page:
All food businesses operating in the New Forest are legally required to register the business. You should do this 28 days before starting to trade.
There is no fee for registration.
You can register your food business using the online form below.
If your food business makes, prepares or handles meat, dairy, egg, fish, shellfish or other animal produce for supply to other businesses, you may need to be approved rather than registered. More information on whether you need approval for your food activity or are exempt is available at the food standards agency approvals page .
approval application form [40.55KB] and email it to us at eandr@nfdc.gov.ukYou cannot supply food items which require approval to produce until the approval process is completed.
You should be aware of what the law requires of you as a food business operator.
Visit the Food Standards Agency website for information on setting up a food business food safety management.
You can seek advice from us before starting any work on your food business. We will give advice regarding:
Find out more about food safety for businesses.
We also provide general information on health and safety for businesses.
The use of any premises (including domestic homes) for food business purposes may be construed as a change of use. You are advised to seek the views of our planning team.
Find out more about submitting a planning application.
You may also need to pay business rates.
Hampshire County Council Trading Standards can offer assistance on legal requirements in relation to labelling of products, including declared weights and product claims.
For more information, contact your local Trading Standards team.
If you intend to sell alcohol or provide any form of public entertainment, you may require a licence.
For more information, contact Licensing Services by calling 023 8028 5505 or by email to licensing@nfdc.gov.uk.
If you own a mobile catering unit such as a burger van or ice cream van, you must have the landowner's permission before you attempt to trade in any location. This includes in lay-bys or on any road.
There are some bye-laws which mean you cannot trade in certain locations in the New Forest. These include the A31 between Cadnam and Ringwood., and the following streets and footways of Lymington:
You can contact us for advice on starting your food business using the details below.
Email: eandr@nfdc.gov.uk
Phone: 02380 285411
Food and Safety Team
New Forest District Council
Appletree Court
Beaulieu Road
Lyndhurst
SO43 7PA
Our office hours are:
Monday to Thursday: 8.45am to 5.15pm
Friday: 8.45am to 4.45pm
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