The Business Compliance Team, which sits within The Legal, Democratic & Regulatory Services Department, has the responsibility for enforcing food safety legislation in food premises. The aim is the protection of public health in relation to food. The Council signed up to the enforcement concordat in 1998 and copies of the enforcement policy are available at the Council offices. This is to ensure that all enforcement decisions are based on the principles of good enforcement.
Registration of food premises:
A hard copy of St Albans City and District Council Food Register is available to view at the Council offices, or alternatively you can look online below.
Food Register 2011
Completion of registration form downloaded from the website
Once printed, you will need to complete fully, sign and date the form and then return to the address indicated on the form or alternatively use our online registration facility. If a business changes ownership, then use this form, as if a new business.
EUGO Portal
It is a requirement under 6(2) of regulation (EC) No 852/2004 for food premises to register with their local authority (for exemption see below). We maintain a public register for food premises available on this website.
The registration will then be followed up by the establishment of an inspection programme for each premises, to ensure that food safety legislation and guidance is adhered to and public health is protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to start a food business in St Albans City and District, What do I have to do?
You will need to register your premises with us at least 28 days before starting a new food business. Please contact the Business Compliance team.
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Can I run a food business from home?
You will need to check with the planning department to see whether you need planning permission. Your business will need to be registered with the Business Compliance Team and you will need to demonstrate a knowledge of food hygiene principles.
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How often do Food Businesses have to be inspected by Business Compliance Officers?
A data base of all food businesses is held on computer and the frequency of inspections depends on the risk associated with a particular premise (eg a large restaurant poses a higher potential risk than a shop selling packaged foods). Food inspections are carried out daytime, evenings and weekends to check compliance with food hygiene regulations.
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I Have Visited a Food Premise and the Kitchens were Filthy What Should I do?
All complaints made to the Business Compliance Team are investigated. If you leave your name and address a written response will be provided. If you wish to remain anonymous your complaint will still be investigated Telephone 01727 - 819406.
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How can I Make a Complaint about an Item of Food I have Brought?
We can only investigate a food complaint if you have the food and its packaging. You will need to bring it to the Civic Centre offices as soon as possible and provide details to a Business Compliance Officer. We investigate complaints relating to foreign bodies, mouldy food for example.
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How can I Make a Complaint about an Item of Food which is Passed its Use-By Date?
This is dealt with by Hertfordshire Trading Standards
Telephone: 01727 - 813880
Fax: 01727 - 813877
e-mail: hcctradstad@hertscc.gov.uk
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Date of last review: 27 June 2011