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Get a licence for your business

Last updated
29 Dec 2023

You can search for business licences on GOV.UK or your local council website.

Licence finder on GOV.UK

Find out what type of licence you need for your business using the GOV.UK licence finder tool.

You may be able to apply online, or you'll be directed to your local council.

Licences from your local council

Local councils are responsible for licensing and registering certain types of business activities. They can tell you whether you need a licence, help you apply for one and tell you how long the process will take.

Check with your local council about licenses for business and events such as:

  • alcohol – for premises and individuals selling or authorising the sale of alcohol
  • public entertainment
  • food safety licences
  • taxis and private hire cars
  • gambling
  • private markets where more than one seller is selling goods to the public
  • boarding animals
  • riding establishments
  • dangerous goods
  • marches and parades
  • public charitable collections
Aberdeen City Council Aberdeenshire Council Angus Council Argyll and Bute Council Clackmannanshire Council Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Dumfries and Galloway Council Dundee City Council East Ayrshire Council East Dunbartonshire Council East Lothian Council East Renfrewshire Council Edinburgh Council Falkirk Council Fife Council Glasgow City Council Highland Council Inverclyde Council Midlothian Council Moray Council North Ayrshire Council North Lanarkshire Council Orkney Islands Council Perth and Kinross Council Renfrewshire Council Scottish Borders Council Shetland Islands Council South Ayrshire Council South Lanarkshire Council Stirling Council West Dunbartonshire Council West Lothian Council
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