By Harshit
November 15, 2025
Starting a restaurant in India requires navigating multiple regulations. From FSSAI to fire safety, over 30 licences may be needed. Here are the key approvals every restaurateur should know.
Restaurants must obtain Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, Income Tax registration, and Import Licence for restricted items, issued by MCA, DGFT, and Income Tax Department.
Required under the Food Safety and Standards Act, FSSAI ensures safe and hygienic food preparation, storage, and service. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Covers GST registration for tax collection and VAT registration where applicable, like alcohol sales. Issued by CBIC and state tax departments.
Includes EPF, ESI, and Employee Pension registrations to comply with labour laws. Issued by EPFO and ESIC.
State-level registration governs employee rights, working hours, and business operations. Many states offer lifetime, free online registration. Issued by the State Labour Department or Municipal Corpo
Covers Consent to Establish (CTE), Consent to Operate (CTO), and approvals for smoke chimneys and DG sets, ensuring compliance with emission and noise norms. Issued by the State Pollution Control Boar
Fire Safety Certificate ensures compliance with fire norms. Many states provide provisional NoCs valid up to 5 years. Issued by the State Fire Department or Local Fire Service Authority.
Restaurants serving alcohol require Liquor and Peg Measure licences, plus Weights & Measures certification. Issued by State Excise and Legal Metrology departments.
Covers Health, Trade, Eating House licences, Traffic NoC, and Garbage/Sewage clearance. Issued by Municipal Corporation, ULB, or Local Police.
Covers Entertainment Licence, Discotheque NoC, Al Fresco dining, temporary structures, and approvals for live events. Issued by Local Police, Municipal Corporation, and State Entertainment/Excise auth
Note: The above list covers common licences; exact requirements may vary by state or city.