To secure a coffee shop licence (license) in London, register as a food business with your borough council at least 28 days before trading (free), then confirm whether you need: a late-night refreshment authorisation (hot drinks/food served 23:00–05:00 via a premises licence), an alcohol premises licence (if selling alcohol), or occasional TENs for irregular events. Verify planning use: Class E usually permits cafés, but prior use, extraction, and planning conditions on hours/ventilation may require an application. Secure a pavement licence for outside tables/chairs (site notice, consultation; typical fee cap £500 new/£350 renewal; up to 2-year term). Implement HACCP (Safer Food Better Business), allergen controls (Natasha’s Law for PPDS), and aim for a 5 food hygiene rating. Complete a fire risk assessment, provide extinguishers and emergency lighting, and maintain gas/electrical safety (commercial gas certificates; PAT/EICR). For espresso boilers/steam systems, arrange a PSSR written scheme and inspections via your insurer. Put in place public/employers’ liability, a commercial waste contract (duty of care), FOG management for sinks, and right-to-work checks. If using CCTV or customer analytics Wi‑Fi, register with the ICO and display privacy signage. Budget timelines: premises licence 28+ days consultation; pavement licence 2–8 weeks; EHO inspection soon after opening. Allow contingencies.
