To secure a coffee shop licence in Sydney, sequence approvals correctly: confirm zoning for food and drink premises, obtain a Development Application (6-12 weeks) or Complying Development Certificate (2-4 weeks), then a Construction Certificate and Occupation Certificate. Notify council of your food business, appoint a NSW Food Safety Supervisor (renew every 5 years, certificate displayed), and build to AS 4674 with dedicated handwash basins, mechanical ventilation (AS 1668), grease-proof surfaces, and compliant fire egress. Arrange Sydney Water trade waste consent, a correctly sized grease trap (typically 600-1,000L) and backflow prevention device with annual testing. If serving alcohol, apply for an on-premises restaurant/cafe liquor licence with Liquor & Gaming NSW (allow 60-90 days) and ensure staff hold RSA; if using footpath tables, obtain an outdoor dining permit and $20m public liability. Register an ABN, business name, GST if turnover >$75k, and set up payroll and workers comp. Budget: DA/CDC $1k-$5k+, grease trap install $3k-$8k, FSS course $150-$220, OneMusic licence $400-$1,000/yr, liquor licence $700-$1,200+. Practical checks: exhaust capture rate for your cooking load, waste contract, pest control, signage approval, disability access (NCC/AS 1428), and pre-lease confirmation of ventilation and trade waste capacity, hours of operation limits, and maintain staff training records on-site.
