Running a mobile food company or managing catering trailers may be an appealing venture. The joy of delivering wonderful cuisine to the people, the flexibility to go to where the buyers are, and the possibility to distinguish yourself with unique offers are just a few reasons this business is booming. However, to lawfully sell food and maintain seamless operations, vendors must secure the required licenses and permissions. Whether you're dishing up handcrafted coffees, sizzling burgers, or gourmet delicacies from your catering trailer, applying these standards is crucial.Â
That's why the team at Bistro Trailers would like to share with you a handy reference to the licensing and rules that mobile food sellers and catering trailer owners need to know. Most of the content focuses on the UK, however comparable restrictions may apply in your country.Â
Registering Your Food Business
Before serving even one customer, registering your food company with your local council is a legal duty. This procedure is free and must be completed at least 28 days before you start trading. Councils utilise this information to perform inspections and verify compliance with food safety requirements.Â
When registering, submit facts about your catering trailer, its planned destinations, and the sorts of food you'll make. This stage is non-negotiable and applies whether you're operating from a market stall, food truck, or converted van.Â
Food Hygiene Certificate
Food hygiene training is not technically a legal requirement, but you are still expected to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards. Most councils recommend obtaining a food hygiene certificate, especially for anyone handling or preparing food. Certificates are available in three levels:
Level 1: Basic awareness of food hygiene for staff who don’t handle food directly.
Level 2: Designed for food handlers; the most common certification.
Level 3: For supervisors and managers overseeing food preparation.
It’s a good idea to keep certificates up to date and visible when inspections occur.
Food Hygiene Rating Scheme
Once registered, your business will undergo an inspection by the local Environmental Health Officer (EHO). This inspection determines your Food Hygiene Rating, a score between 0 (urgent improvement needed) and 5 (very good).
Achieving a high score not only ensures compliance but also builds customer trust. It’s worth investing time and effort in maintaining high standards, including clean preparation areas, correct storage temperatures, and thorough cleaning routines, as these will all pay off in the long run.
Source: Government website
Street Trading Licence
If you plan to sell food from your catering trailer on public land, a Street Trading Licence is usually required. The rules vary depending on your location, so it’s essential to check with your local council.
Bear in mind, some councils only allow trading in designated zones. You might need to pay fees, provide proof of public liability insurance, and agree to specific trading hours. Ignoring these rules could lead to fines or even losing your right to trade in the area.
Health and Safety Regulations
Operating a catering trailer means taking responsibility for the safety of your customers and staff. You’ll need to comply with health and safety regulations, including:
Ensuring gas and electrical equipment is tested regularly.
Keeping a first aid kit on-site.
Completing a risk assessment for your setup, covering fire risks, slips, trips, and burns.
Your local council or health and safety officer can provide guidance on staying compliant.
Allergen Labelling
The UK’s Food Information Regulations (FIR) require that food businesses provide clear information about allergens in their products. Since October 2021, Natasha’s Law mandates that food prepacked for direct sale must include a full ingredients list with allergens highlighted.
If you're serving freshly prepared food, ensure staff can confidently inform customers about allergens present in any menu item. Training and accessible ingredient lists go a long way in avoiding incidents and legal issues.
Waste Disposal Regulations
Dealing with waste responsibly is another key requirement. Councils often provide guidance on how to manage food waste, recycling, and general rubbish. Many traders need a trade waste agreement to dispose of waste legally.
Failing to adhere to waste regulations can result in fines, so ensure bins are clearly labelled and regularly emptied. If you operate in multiple locations, consider portable waste solutions to keep your site clean and compliant.
Employer’s Responsibilities
If your catering trailer business employs staff, even part-time, there are additional legal responsibilities to consider:
Employer’s Liability Insurance: Mandatory for most businesses employing staff.
Contracts of Employment: Even for casual or seasonal workers.
Right to Work Checks: Ensure all employees are legally allowed to work in the UK.
Take the time to understand your obligations. A small team working in close quarters like a catering trailer needs clear policies to ensure smooth operations.
Licensing for Alcohol or Late-Night Sales
Planning to serve alcohol or operate late into the night? You’ll need additional licences:
Premises Licence: Required to sell alcohol or hot food and drink between 11 pm and 5 am.
Personal Licence: For individuals responsible for selling alcohol.
Applications involve fees, training courses, and an understanding of the Licensing Act 2003. Don’t skip these if your trailer offers more than just food.
Vehicle and Insurance Requirements
For mobile food vendors operating trailers, the vehicle itself must meet legal standards. Ensure your towing vehicle is properly insured and adheres to UK road laws. Additionally, catering trailers often need specialised insurance covering:
Public liability.
Equipment and stock.
Employer’s liability (if applicable).
Discuss your needs with a trusted insurance provider to secure a policy tailored to your business.
Temporary Event Notice (TEN)
A Temporary Event Notice may be required if you plan to trade at one-off events, such as festivals, fairs, or private gatherings. These notices allow you to sell alcohol or food during the event and are issued by local councils.
Planning Permission
Finally, depending on where you park your catering trailer, you might need planning permission. While not always necessary, if your trailer remains in one location for an extended period or operates on private land, it’s worth checking with the council.
Why Preparation Matters
Navigating the maze of licences and permits might seem daunting, but it’s a necessary step for running a successful catering trailer business. Getting your paperwork in order early ensures you avoid legal headaches and allows you to focus on what really matters—serving fantastic food and building your reputation.
At Bistro Trailers, we understand the challenges of setting up a mobile food business. We are here to provide high-quality catering trailers. We also offer expertise and support to help you hit the ground running. Whether you’re just starting or expanding your fleet, our tailored solutions ensure your trailer meets industry standards and catches the eye.