Introduction:
An Eating-House License is a mandatory police permit required for any establishment where food or non-alcoholic beverages are served for on-the-spot consumption. Whether you run a fine-dining restaurant, café, cloud-kitchen with dine-in counters, bakery, juice bar, canteen, food truck or even a small street-side outlet — you must obtain this licence before starting operations.
Who Issues the Eating-House License?
Across India, the licence is granted by the local police authority having jurisdiction over your premises. Depending on the city/state, the issuing authority may be:
- Commissioner of Police
- Additional Commissioner (Licensing)
- Police Licensing Branch or District Licensing Authority
4. Applications must be filed with the police department controlling the area where your shop/restaurant is located.
Why an Eating-House License is Required?
Running a food establishment without this permit is a direct violation under local police regulations. Key benefits include:
1. Legal Compliance: -
Avoid penalties, sudden inspections, sealing or closure orders.
2. Improved Business Credibility: -
A valid license builds customer trust and helps in dealings with landlords, suppliers and government bodies.
3. Smooth Day-to-Day Operations: -
Correct licensing reduces harassment during inspections and supports faster approvals for events, extended hours or other related permissions.
Other Licenses Commonly Required Alongside Eating-House License
Most businesses need a set of additional approvals depending on the type and size of the outlet:
1. FSSAI Registration / License: -
Mandatory for all food businesses; confirms food-safety standards.
2. Health / Trade License: -
Issued by the municipal corporation for sanitation, hygiene, waste disposal and trade compliance.
3. Fire NOC / Fire Safety Certificate: -
Required mainly for larger outlets, multi-storeyed buildings or establishments with significant seating capacity.
These approvals are issued by different government departments, but police authorities often verify them during the Eating-House inspection.
Updated Documents Checklist (Most Common Requirements Across India):
Prepare clean and clear copies of the following documents; originals may be required during inspection:
- Site plan/floor plan with layout of seating, kitchen and exits
- Photos of premises and applicant’s passport-size photo
- Trade License (if issued) and latest municipal tax receipts
- Proof of premises — ownership documents or registered lease; landlord NOC if rented
- Applicant’s ID & address proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport)
- Notarised affidavit as per local format
- Fire Safety Certificate / Fire NOC (if applicable)
- CCTV installation details including minimum recording retention (e.g., 30 days)
- Company documents (for companies) – COI, MOA/AOA, board resolution, director KYC
- Police Verification Certificate
- GST Registration copy
- FSSAI Registration / License copy
- Employee records and police verification (if required)
- Proof of installed fire-safety equipment (extinguishers, signage, exits)
How to Apply for an Eating-House Licence?
Step-by-Step (2025 Guide)-
Although the exact form and portal differ by city/state, the overall process is similar nationwide:
Step 1: Gather All Required Documents
Use the checklist above and ensure the site plan, IDs, and registrations are in order.
Step 2: Fill the Prescribed Application Form
Download the form from the police licensing website or obtain it from the Licensing Branch. Provide:
- Business and owner details
- Fire-safety and CCTV details
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit the application online (where available) or at the police licensing counter along with supporting documents and prescribed fees.
Step 4: Inspection of the Premises
A police licensing officer will inspect your establishment to verify layout, hygiene, fire safety, CCTV and documents.
Step 5: Police Verification & Document Check
The department conducts background verification of the applicant and validates the authenticity of submitted documents.
Step 6: Grant of License
After successful verification, the authorities issue the Eating-House Licence.
rocessing time typically ranges from 3–8 weeks, depending on the city.
Step 7: Validity & Renewal
Most licences are valid for three years and must be renewed before expiry.
Practical Tips to Speed Up Approval
Submit a clean and clearly labelled site plan showing seating, kitchen and emergency exits.
Install fire extinguishers, signage and CCTV cameras before inspection.
Keep GST, FSSAI and Trade Licence copies ready — inspectors often ask for them together.
Obtain a proper landlord NOC early if the property is on rent.
Ensure truthful answers and full cooperation during police verification to avoid delays.