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Restaurant licensing


Licensing is the biggest unknown in opening a shop. We run design, works and the application together, and deal with every department on your behalf.

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Pre-lease site assessment

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Lease & DMC

Some deeds of mutual covenant ban restaurants outright — discovered after signing, it can't be fixed.

Unauthorised works

Unauthorised structures may have to be removed before a licence is granted.

Exhaust route

Cooking fumes need a viable discharge route — without one, hot food may be impossible.

Grease trap

Grease trap location and capacity must comply and dictate the kitchen layout.

Means of escape

Exit number and width set the occupancy — which caps your seat count.

Gas & power

No gas supply or insufficient power can add significantly to the budget.

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What's your business model?
Will you sell any of these? (select all that apply)
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You'll likely need

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For guidance only — actual requirements depend on the unit and current law. We confirm after assessing your site.

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Licence types

General Restaurant Licence

Cook and sell any type of food for customers to eat on the premises

Most restaurants, cha chaan tengs and Chinese restaurants

Light Refreshment Restaurant Licence

Only specified simple foods — e.g. coffee, sandwiches, pastries

Simpler requirements, but a restricted menu

Food Factory Licence

Food made for consumption off the premises — takeaway shops, central kitchens

Businesses without dine-in seating

Bakery Licence

Baking bread and pastries for sale

Specific oven and ventilation requirements

Liquor Licence

Selling alcohol on the premises — decided by the Liquor Licensing Board

Normally requires a restaurant licence as well

Outside Seating Accommodation

Placing seating outside the shop front

A separate application; means of escape must stay clear

Restricted food permits

Sushi & sashimiOysters for raw consumptionSiu mei & lo meiMilk & milk beveragesFrozen confectionsNon-bottled drinksCut fruitMeat for raw consumption

After the licence

RenewalsLicence transfersPlan amendmentsExtra seatingAdditional permits

FAQ

Before you open you might ask

The practical questions owners ask before opening. Can’t find yours? We reply within one working day.

Once basic hygiene and safety requirements are met, FEHD may issue a provisional licence so you can trade legally, while the remaining requirements are completed for the full licence. FEHD's current guidance applies.

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