When selling your food business that is still operating you can obtain, upon application, a Licensed Business Compliance Inspection Certificate. An application for this certificate can only be made by the current licensee and will not be accepted from a solicitor or third party.

An inspection will be carried out and a Certificate of Compliance will be issued to the licensee outlining compliance with the Food Act 2006 and the Food Standards Code, in particular, Food Safety Standards 3.2.3 and premise cleanliness.

Obtaining a food licence when taking over an existing premises

When taking over the ownership of a previously licensed food business you must apply for a new licence prior to commencing trade.

Council will assess your application and decide to grant or refuse your application. A Council Officer may inspect the premises during this process to assess the suitability of the premises. It is important to remember that once the new licence is granted the new holder is responsible for any outstanding requirements that may apply to the premises.

Renovating or altering a premises

If you are making structural changes to your premises, you will need to contact Council for advice.

You may wish to lodge a design assessment application with Council for assessment. Once you receive your design assessment document, you may make the approved changes. When the work is complete, contact an Environmental Health Officer for an appointment to conduct a final inspection. For more information, phone Council on 131 872.

Liquor licensing: Liquor licensing permits are obtained from the liquor licensing division of State Government. The liquor licensing division is part of Fair Trading and can be contacted on 07 4637 6000 or by visiting their website

Footpath dining: If you wish to place tables and chairs on the footpath, you may need to obtain approval if you do not meet the minimum standards outlined in the local law. For further information, read our footpath dining information page.

Roadside vending: If you want to sell food on public land including roads from a mobile vehicle, you may need a a roadside vending approval.

Vehicle registration: Mobile food vehicles need registration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Advertising and signage: For further information about whether your outdoor advertising and signs need to be licensed, read our advertising signs information page.

Business registration: Business name registration is governed through the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Registering for an Australian Business Number (ABN) is completed via the Australian Business Register.

Other departments outside council: Depending upon the nature of your business a number of Government bodies may wish to have an input into your business.  For further information please contact the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation on 13 25 23 for a complete list of relevant licensing bodies.

Industry associations: There are numerous associations that assist people in the food industry. Some major associations are:

  • Restaurant and Catering Queensland - phone 1300 722 878
  • Commerce Queensland - phone 1300 731 988
  • Queensland Hotels Association - phone 07 3221 6999