Regulatory Services
As a business, there are a number of legal requirements that you must comply with. Regulators are there to assist you in operating within the law and can offer guidance and advice on how best to do so. Below is a list of the regulators you will need to work with to ensure your business is compliant with all relevant regulations.
Trading Standards
Trading Standards are responsible for maintaining quality standards, uniform measures and other elements of trading to protect both customers and businesses. For further information please visit the Suffolk County Council website.
Planning Permission and Building Control
Most new buildings, extensions or changes of use need planning permission, although some minor developments are exempt. It is advisable to check at the outset with the Planning Office to see if permission is needed. For further guidance and advice, please visit the Council’s website.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety at work is the joint responsibility of the local authorities and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The Council aims to prevent workplace accidents by inspection, enforcement and investigation as well as providing advice and training courses. For further guidance and advice, please visit the Council’s website.
Food Safety
Food businesses and other premises where food is handled or stored must be registered with the Council and this includes restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, canteens, market stalls, mobile catering vans and food delivery vans. The Council’s Food and Safety team can provide help and guidance on compliance with food safety regulations as well as offer food safety training courses. For further guidance and advice, please visit the Council’s website.
Fire Safety
Fire risk assessments should be carried out to ensure the safety of those working in and visiting your business. For more information on this and other aspects of fire safety, please visit the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service website.
Licensing
The Council deals with the processing and issuing of a wide range of licenses and permits from animal welfare and street trading to liquor and taxis. For further guidance and advice, please visit the Council’s website.
Environmental Protection
You must ensure that you do not pollute the environment in any way as a result of your business operations. The Council’s Environmental Protection team can offer advice on the legal requirements and good working practices. For further guidance and advice, please visit the Council’s website.