Apply for a restaurant licence
Pubs and restaurants as well as accommodation establishments require a pub licence if alcoholic beverages are served.
Description
- An existing restaurant is continued unchanged and without significant alterations ( continuation):
As a rule, there are no problems in continuing an existing business in the same scope and extent. A provisional licence is initially granted for this purpose. Provided there are no obstacles, a final licence is issued after three months. - A new restaurant is being built or an existing restaurant is being changed in terms of size, room layout or functionality ( new construction/modification):
In this case, you must first apply for a building permit or change of use from the city's Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulations (Planning Department) - Local Building Commission (LBK) Division. The restaurant licence can be applied for at the same time, but you will only receive the (final) restaurant licence once you have received written approval from the Local Building Commission. It is not possible to issue a provisional catering licence for new establishments/changes.
Prerequisites
Knowledge of food law
As a restaurateur, you do not have to fulfil any professional requirements. However, you must attend a course on food law knowledge at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) and submit proof of this.
This proof is not required if you have completed an apprenticeship whose final examination includes relevant food law knowledge. Many years of work in the catering industry without prior qualification is not sufficient for exemption.
Required documents
- Identity card or passport
- Copy of the lease agreement
- Location and floor plans (scale 1:100)
- Proof of instruction from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK)
- for legal entities: Extract from the commercial or association register
Questions & Answers
In the case of non-German nationals (especially those from outside the EU), the legal provisions governing foreign nationals must be observed when taking up self-employment. Information can be obtained from the Foreigners Office.
If the applicant has a criminal record or other serious negative findings about the applicant, the catering licence may be refused.
Legal basis
§ Section 2 (1) of the German Catering Act (GastG)