Business Licence
Quick Answer
What is Business Licence?
A business (trading) licence is municipal permission to operate certain businesses, issued under the Businesses Act.
Business Licence explained
Selling food, liquor and various trades require licences; health and safety inspections accompany them. Operating without one risks fines and closure.
Who it applies to: Food sellers, traders and regulated trades.
Cost: Municipal fees, varying by area.
Related terms and guides
Official source: Gov.za
Always verify this information with official South African government sources. Rules, fees and thresholds change. Check SARS, CIPC, the Department of Employment and Labour or gov.za before you act.
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Last reviewed: September 2026 by the BizAnswers editorial team. How we write and check our guides.