To open a coffee shop in India, you need licenses in order to launch without shutdown risk: secure FSSAI registration/licence via the FoSCoS portal (Basic up to ₹12 lakh turnover, State for ₹12 lakh–₹20 crore, Central above ₹20 crore or multi‑state HQ), then apply for the municipal Trade/Health (Eating House) licence, Shop & Establishment registration under your state labour department, and Fire NOC if required by floor area/occupancy. Obtain GST registration (mandatory above ₹20 lakh service turnover; restaurant service taxed at 5% without ITC—register early if working with corporates), Professional Tax (state‑specific), and Pollution Board consent if you run a diesel genset or chimney/roaster. Typical documents: PAN, Aadhaar, entity proof (LLP/PLC/Proprietor), rent/lease with NOC, layout with seating/kitchen, property tax receipt, electricity bill, food handler medical certificates, water potability report, pest‑control AMC, and sanitation SOPs. Fees vary: FSSAI ₹100/year (Basic) to ₹5,000/year (State), municipal licences ₹2,000–₹25,000, inspections 7–30 days. Operational must‑dos: clearly display FSSAI number and Food Safety Display Board, print FSSAI on invoices, maintain daily temperature logs, grease‑trap and waste disposal contracts, FoSTaC hygiene‑training, CCTV and police Eating House licence where applicable (Delhi and metros). Add PPL/IPRS music licence, signboard permit, and Weights & Measures registration for any retail packs.
