TGC Breaks It Down: Trading Legally in SA
A trade/business license is a permit which allows you to set up a business in a specified area. The licence ensures that your enterprise and the business premises meet all the regulations of build safety, public safety and health requirements.
As a business owner, it’s important that you have all the correct licences and permits to operate your business. Without these licences, you may face a range of heavy fines which can lead to your business not operating successfully.
🧾 Let The Glass Castle break it down:
🚩 A trade license is required for businesses in certain sectors – like food, health, entertainment, and personal care. If you have a new business, you might not be required to have a business license. However, some businesses, especially food businesses, need to have a trade license. According to the Business Act, the businesses that need a trade license are:
- Food businesses
- Adult shops
- Cinemas
- Nightclubs
- Arcades
- Pool rooms
- Hawkers
- Any enterprise with three or more vending or slot machines.
- Spas, saunas, health clinics and public baths.
- Massage parlours, laser and ultraviolet treatment centres.
If your business falls under any of these categories, you need to ensure you have your trade licenses so that your business stays compliant and you aren’t fined.
🚩 It ensures your business meets local safety and hygiene standards.
🚩 You apply through your municipality with specific forms and requirements.
✅ Trade with confidence.
