Start a Business in Edinburgh

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 6 permits⏱ 2-8 weeks💰 Varies by capacity and rateable value

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Overview

Starting a business in Edinburgh requires a Premises Licence / Food Registration through the City of Edinburgh Council Licensing. Base fee: Varies by capacity and rateable value. Different licensing laws from England. Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. Minimum unit pricing on alcohol. Business rates set by Scottish Government.

Required Permits

✓Register business with HMRC (free — sole trader or limited company)
✓Companies House registration (£12 online, if limited company)
✓Local council premises licence (if food/drink/entertainment — £100-£635)
✓Food business registration with local council (FREE, mandatory for all food)
✓Alcohol licence from local council (if applicable — £100-£635)
✓Planning permission (if change of use — ~£462)

Step-by-Step Process

1

Register business with HMRC (free — sole trader or limited company)

2

Companies House registration (£12 online, if limited company)

3

Local council premises licence (if food/drink/entertainment — £100-£635)

4

Food business registration with local council (FREE, mandatory for all food)

5

Alcohol licence from local council (if applicable — £100-£635)

6

Planning permission (if change of use — ~£462)

Costs

Estimated total: Varies by capacity and rateable value depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

City of Edinburgh Council Licensing

Phone: 0131 200 2000

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Scottish licensing law is SEPARATE from England & Wales
⚠ Alcohol licensing through Licensing Board (not magistrates court)
⚠ Festival season creates temporary licensing opportunities (Edinburgh Fringe)
⚠ Heritage/conservation areas affect signage and fit-out approvals
⚠ Tourism-heavy — outdoor dining permits in high demand

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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