Registering with a local authority can save your business time - and it's free.When starting a new business, it's important to get things right from the start as this will make it much easier to run your business in the future.If you are planning to open a new catering business, you must register your premises with the environmental health service at your local authority at least 28 days before you open. There is no charge for registering your business.Before opening, contact your local authority. They will help you plan your business, organise waste and recycling collection and get appropriate training and tools. It makes good business sense to ensure the food you are preparing and serving is safe to eat - good food hygiene helps prevent food poisoning and protects your reputation with customers.You might also need to register as self employed and/or register for VAT. If you want to make a change to your premises, remember that you might need planning permission.You will also need to pay business rates on most premises and will require licences for activities such as selling or supplying alcohol and selling hot food between 11pm and 5am.Business Link's guide on food safety will also help you make sure that your business is operating within the laws and fulfilling regulations in your business sector.Article taken from Business Link. For further information and advice follow the links below.