Brighton & Hove
Food safety registration, EHO inspections, and compliance guidance for hospitality businesses in Brighton & Hove. Covers The Lanes, North Laine, Kemptown, and the seafront.
Food Business Registration
Register your food business with Brighton & Hove City Council at least 28 days before trading. Brighton has a particularly dense and diverse food scene for its size, and the council provides clear online registration guidance.
Inspection Approach
Brighton & Hove City Council manages food safety inspections across a city known for its independent and creative food culture. The team handles a high volume of businesses relative to the city's size, including many vegan and vegetarian specialist venues, seafront traders, and festival caterers. Inspectors are experienced with diverse and innovative food operations.
Local Insights
Brighton has one of the highest densities of restaurants per capita in the UK.
The Lanes and North Laine areas are packed with independent cafés, restaurants, and food shops.
Brighton is known as a hub for vegan and vegetarian dining, with EHOs experienced in plant-based food safety considerations.
Seafront food businesses and beach traders face additional challenges around pest control, wind-borne contamination, and limited water supply.
The city hosts Brighton Food Festival and numerous pop-up events throughout the year.
Tips for Brighton & Hove Businesses
Seafront and outdoor trading
If you operate a seafront kiosk or outdoor food business, inspectors will focus on pest control measures, handwashing facilities, temperature control in warm weather, and protection of food from environmental contamination.
Vegan and allergen-free businesses
Brighton's strong vegan scene means EHOs are knowledgeable about plant-based food safety. Even vegan businesses must have allergen management systems covering soya, nuts, gluten, and other relevant allergens.
Small premises, high standards
Many Brighton food businesses operate from very small premises, particularly in The Lanes. Inspectors understand space constraints but still expect proper segregation of raw and ready-to-eat foods, adequate storage, and accessible cleaning facilities.
Related Resources
Explore guides, glossary terms, and regulations relevant to food businesses in Brighton & Hove.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register a food business in Brighton?
Register online through Brighton & Hove City Council at least 28 days before trading. It's free. You'll be contacted to arrange an initial food hygiene inspection.
Are there special requirements for seafront food businesses in Brighton?
Seafront and outdoor food businesses must meet the same food safety standards as indoor premises. You'll need adequate handwashing facilities, proper waste disposal, temperature control equipment, and protection against pest and environmental contamination.
Simplify compliance in Brighton & Hove
Paddl makes food safety compliance simple for Brighton & Hove businesses. Digital SFBB, HACCP plans, temperature logs, and audit-ready documentation — all in one platform built for UK hospitality.