Licence - Butchers Shop

Description

The Food Safety (General Food Hygiene) (Butchers' Shops) Amendment Regulations 2000 introduced the need for certain retail premises to obtain an annual licence from their local authority. From 1 November 2000, it is a criminal offence to operate a butcher's shop without a licence.

Eligibility

Premises that wish to sell unwrapped raw meat together with ready-to-eat food must have a licence from the Council.

Typically this means most retail butchers' shops, mobile shops, market stalls grocers or supermarkets containing a butchery counter.

Procedure

In order to obtain a licence the premises itself and the systems and practices that the trader utilises must meet minimum hygiene and safety standards.

Licence conditions

There are three main conditions required for the licence:

1. Compliance with food law
2. Formal training of all staff, minimum qualification of the Foundation Certificate in Food Hygiene (or equivalent) for all staff and at least one member of staff, who will normally be the on-site supervisor, with at least Intermediate or Level 2 Food Hygiene training of the Meat and Livestock commission's Meat Manager's Hygiene and HACCP course
3. Operation of fully documented Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point food safety management

When and how to apply for a licence

A completed application form must be submitted at least 28 days before the licence is required e.g. 28 days before an existing licence expires or before you wish to start trading.

Once we receive your completed application form, we may contact you to clarify the details given and to arrange an inspection.

Helplines

Regulatory Services, Food Hygiene Team (01226) 773860

Charges/Fees

A fee is payable. Currently the fee is £100

Methods of Payment Available

Payment can be made in cash or by cheque at any Council cash office. Alternatively, cheques can be posted.

Opening Times/Locations

Opening times and location map, click link for further information.

How the customer can help

Please make payment on receipt of your invoice.

Application form references

Butchers Licence Application Form

Distribution Points

Application form is available from our offices (please see opening times/locations)

Legislation

Food Safety (General Food Hygiene) (Butcher's Shops) Amendment Regulations 2000 (See Associated Links - Statutory Instrument 2000 No. 930)

Response Times/Next Steps

An Officer will respond within 5 working days

Additional Notes

Trading without a licence

It is illegal to trade without a licence. The Council has the power to prosecute anyone trading unlawfully without a licence or in breach of their licence. Upon conviction, the Court may impose a fine of up to  £5,000 plus legal costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q When will my licence expire?

A Your licence expires on the 31st October

Q Can I run a butcher's shop with open raw meat and cooked meat without a licence?

A No

Related Links:

• Statutory Instrument 2000 No. 930
• Food Standards Agency