Late hours catering licence

If you sell food or drinks between 11pm and 5am, you need a late hours catering licence. This applies to cafés, takeaways, shops and other businesses open late at night.

You must have a licence before you can trade during these hours. You cannot take over someone else’s licence, even if you buy an existing business. You must apply for your own.

What needs a licence

You need a late hours catering licence if you sell:

• hot or cold food
• soft drinks or other refreshments
• items linked to food, such as chewing gum or food ingredients

The licence does not cover:

• live animals
• animal feed
• medicines

If you already hold a licence, you can also use this service to apply to change the terms of your existing licence.

How to apply

Once you submit your application, we will process it and keep you informed.

What happens after you apply

After we receive your application:

• there is a 28 day objection period
• we send a copy of your application to Police Scotland for comments or objections

If you have not heard from us within 28 days, contact the Licensing and Registration office and we will update you on progress.

Collecting your licence

When your licence is ready, you must bring proof of identification to collect your documents.

If someone else is collecting them for you, they must bring: 

• something in writing from you giving permission 
• their own identification

The signature must match the signature on your application form. We do not accept permission by email.

Licence fee

Late hours catering licence £422.12

Apply or get help

You can apply online for a new licence or request changes to an existing one.

If you need help with your application or want an update, contact the Licensing and Registration office.