• Understand the Rules: Read Regulation 638 and review the requirements.
• Check Your Facility: Ensure your premises meet the health and safety standards outlined in the regulation here.
• Apply Through Your Municipality: Contact your local authority to get the COA application forms.
  Fill them out, attach the required documents, and submit them;
  
  
  • Zoning certificate
  • Identity documents or Department of Home Affairs documents for foreigners
  • Registration with CIPC, if applicable
  • Copy of title deed, lease agreement, or proof of address
  • Affidavit and certified copy of identity document of stand or erf owner
  • Menu of restaurant, if applicable
  • Tax clearance certificate from SARS
  • Foreign nationals - In terms of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, foreign nationals are expected to provide proof of a R5 million investment, in terms of bank statement and a business visa
  
  We have also added the online forms to major municipalities here.
• Inspection: An Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) will inspect your premises to confirm compliance.
• Receive Your COA: Once your facility passes inspection, your municipality will issue the COA.

• Display the COA: Post the certificate in a visible area on your premises.
• Notify Changes: Report changes in the Person-in-Charge or significant modifications to your premises to the local municipality.
• Transport Compliance: Vehicles transporting food must carry a certified COA copy.

You need a business license if your business is required to comply with health and safety regulations. The National Business Act (Business Act 71 of 1991) governs business license requirements.

Some businesses that need a business license include:

• Businesses that make or sell food that can go off, for example milk
• Health clinics, spas, saunas, and public baths
• Massage parlors, laser and ultraviolet treatment centers
• Adult shops
• Cinemas
• Nightclubs
• Pool rooms
• Arcades
• Any business with three or more vending or slot machines
• Hawkers

Selling Food? Here's What You Need to Know About Getting a Certificate of Acceptability (COA) and/or Business License

If you're handling or selling food in South Africa, obtaining a Certificate of Acceptability (COA) is not just a good idea—it's required by law. Under Regulation 638 of 2018, all food-handling businesses (including businesses that sell food) must comply with strict safety standards to protect public health. Here's a simplified guide to help you understand the process:

What is Regulation 638?

Regulation 638 applies to any business involved in food handling, including hawkers, spazas, restaurants, caterers, retail shops, institutional kitchens, and food transporters. These rules ensure that food intended for human consumption is handled safely.

Do I need a COA to handle food?

Yes, it's illegal to handle food without a valid COA, except for specific exemptions (e.g., hunting, fishing, or personal charitable food preparation).

I am a spaza. Do I need a business license?

If you do not sell perishable food (food that can go off, for example milk), then you most likely do not need a business license.

Who should apply?

It depends on municipalities. In some instances, it’s the owner of the property; in other instances, it is the owner of the business.

What documents are needed for a COA?

It depends on the municipality. Documents may include:

• Certified and valid copy of ID. For foreign nationals, valid documents from Home Affairs giving authorization to run a business such as visa or work permit.
• Proof of address: Download Template
• Business registration with CIPC and tax registration (optional)
• Proof of ownership or permission to use premises (Commercial Lease Template)
• Complete the municipal form (Municipal Forms)

What does it cost?

Costs vary by municipality, and some may even offer the service for free.

How long does it take?

This depends on the municipality and how prepared your business is during the application process.

Does the COA expire?

No, but you must update it if the Person-in-Charge changes or your operations undergo significant changes.

• Proof of Address Affidavit (Owner)
• Proof of Address Affidavit (Shop Owner)
• Residential Lease Template
• Commercial Lease Template
• Compliance Affidavit