LegalGELegalGE
...

Restaurant Licensing

Do I need a specific license to open a restaurant in Georgia?

There is no specific "restaurant license," but you must register as a food business operator with the National Food Agency before opening. Failure to do so is illegal.

Is HACCP mandatory for restaurants?

Yes, implementing HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) standards is now mandatory for catering establishments in Georgia to ensure food safety.

Do I need a license to sell alcohol?

Generally, you do not need a special license for retail alcohol sales in a restaurant, but you must ensure all alcohol has proper excise stamps and documentation. Some municipalities may charge a local fee.

Can I play music in my restaurant?

Yes, but you are legally required to pay royalties to the Georgian Copyright Association for the public performance of copyrighted music.

Reading Time

3 min

Published

...

Restaurant licensing and regulation in Georgia involve complex administrative procedures essential for the legal operation of a food establishment. While there is no single "restaurant license" document in Georgia, businesses must undergo mandatory registration with the National Food Agency (NFA) and meet a range of sanitary, hygiene, fire safety, and municipal requirements. With the growth of tourism, the restaurant business is one of the most attractive yet regulatory-demanding sectors. Incorrectly filed documentation or disregarding sanitary norms can lead to heavy financial fines or the suspension of operations.

Restaurant owners need not only business registration but also the implementation of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) systems, proper employment contracts with staff, and compliance with alcohol trading rules. The assistance of a qualified lawyer ensures these processes are streamlined and risks are minimized.

What does Restaurant Licensing Service cover?

Specialists on our platform offer full legal accompaniment during the restaurant opening and management process:

  • Registration in Economic Activities Registry: Company incorporation and ensuring registration as a business operator with the National Food Agency (a mandatory step before starting operations).
  • HACCP Compliance: Consultation on implementing modern food safety systems and organizing documentation.
  • Municipal Permits: Obtaining permits for outdoor spaces (terraces/tables) from the local City Hall and permits for outdoor advertising.
  • Labor Law: Drafting employment contracts with staff (chefs, waiters), managing sanitary booklets, and ensuring compliance with occupational safety norms.
  • Alcohol and Tobacco: Consultation on rules for selling alcoholic beverages, excise marking, and compliance with tobacco control legislation (ban on smoking in enclosed spaces).
  • Intellectual Property: Registering the restaurant name and logo as a trademark with Sakpatenti.

Common Scenarios and Needs

Legal assistance is particularly important in the following cases:

  • When a new restaurant is opening, and the owner wants to ensure the kitchen layout and technological process comply with food safety requirements to avoid fines.
  • If the National Food Agency discovers a critical non-compliance during an inspection and suspends the facility's operations, requiring a rapid legal response.
  • When a restaurant wants to place tables on the sidewalk and needs a permit from the City Hall Architecture Service.
  • If neighbors complain about noise or smells from the restaurant, and the dispute needs to be resolved with the administrative body.
  • When it is necessary to sign an agreement with the copyright association for the public performance of music.

Georgian Legislation and Regulations

The restaurant business is regulated by several key laws:

  • Code of Food/Feed Safety, Veterinary and Plant Protection: Establishes hygiene requirements, labeling rules, and state control mechanisms.
  • Law of Georgia on Tobacco Control: Strictly prohibits smoking in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants.
  • Labor Code: Regulates the relationship between employer and employee, including overtime and night shift compensation.
  • Administrative Offences Code: Defines fines for noise violations and failure to comply with sanitary rules.

Service Process

Working with a lawyer involves:

  1. Preparatory Stage: Assessing the facility's condition against regulatory requirements.
  2. Registration and Notification: Registering the company and notifying the National Food Agency about the commencement of activities.
  3. Internal Documentation: Preparing the HACCP plan, internal regulations, and employment contracts.
  4. Obtaining Permits: Dealing with the local municipality for outdoor trading or advertising permits.
  5. Ongoing Support: Keeping you informed about legislative changes and providing legal assistance during inspections.

Find a Specialist on Legal.ge

The success of a restaurant business depends not only on delicious food but also on sound legal documentation. Legal.ge allows you to find lawyers specializing in food safety and business licensing. Protect your investment and ensure the smooth operation of your restaurant with the help of a professional.

Updated: ...

Specialists for this service

Loading...