Register a new food business

Under the Food Act 1984 you must register your food business with Council if you want to prepare and/or store food.

You have a responsibility to sell food that is safe to eat. Our environmental health officers will help you understand and comply with your obligations under the relevant laws.

Once your business is registered with Council you will need to renew your registration and pay the registration fee each year. The registration period runs from 1 January to 31 December each year. You cannot trade if you do not have a current registration.

Before registering your business with us, visit the Victorian Government website to learn more about:

• food business registration
• PrimeSafe
• Dairy Food Safety Victoria
• food safety programs and supervisors.

Your food business will be given a classification of 1, 2, 3 or 4 as part of the registration.

Classification is determined by the food handling conducted by your business and the level of risk to food safety. The highest risk is class 1 (e.g. hospitals, childcare centres, aged care facilities) to lowest is class 4 (e.g. prepackaged lollies in a chemist). 

Each classification has specific requirements that your business needs to meet before it can be registered. If you change the type of food you handle, it may alter the classification of your food business and you must notify us

To find your classification, visit the Victorian Government website. 

For premises connected to sewer

Food businesses have waste that contains chemicals, grease, oil and solids and must be disposed of appropriately. You must have a trade waste agreement with Yarra Valley Water or South East Water. Visit their websites for more information.

Consideration must also be given to properties that operate with tank water to ensure that the water is fit to drink (potable) and safe for use in activities such as cleaning and food preparation.  

Learn more about rainwater, groundwater, surface water and guidelines on the Victorian Government website.

A property with an onsite waste water treatment system (septic tank) must also be able to demonstrate that the system is adequate in size and a state of repair that allows for additional wastewater to be treated and contained on site. In general, intermittent food handling practices do not generate much additional wastewater.

Home based businesses that have off site discharge will need to apply for a Permit to Alter and ensure that all waste water is treated and contained on site.

Visit Septic systems to learn more.

If you're considering purchasing an existing food business, it's important to understand its current level of compliance with health regulations. We recommend arranging a Pre-Purchase Food Inspection Report to help you make an informed decision.

Just like you wouldn’t buy a car without a roadworthy certificate, a pre-purchase inspection gives you peace of mind by assessing the business’s health and safety standards. Our Environmental Health Officers will inspect the premises and provide a detailed report outlining any compliance issues.

This report can be a valuable part of your settlement process, helping you avoid unexpected costs and ensuring you know exactly what you're buying.

To begin your application for a Pre-Purchase Inspection Report, click the button below.

Request a Pre-Purcahase Food Inspection