Food business Fit-out Approval

Overview

When you start a new food business (or make changes to an existing one) it’s important that the fit-out is up to standard with Australian legislation. For food businesses, this makes sure your customers are safe and reduces the risk of cross contamination and food-borne illnesses.

Our Public Health team can approve your fit-out plans before you finish construction on your premises. This is an optional but highly recommended step that can save you making costly changes later if any issues are identified during the inspection.

 

Use our Permit Finder if you’re not sure what permits you need.

For more information, contact our Public Health team at health@stonnington.vic.gov.au or on 03 8290 1333.

How to apply

Online

  1. Confirm your business address

    You must confirm the address of your premises before you apply because we can't process your application or provide advice without it.

  2. Receive your Planning Permit (if required)

    Apply for and receive your Planning Permit if you need one. Use our Permit Finder if you're unsure what permits you need.

  3. Prepare your documents
    You will need to provide copies of your plans and layout of your fit-out with your application. 

  4. Submit your application

    Apply for Fit-out Approval with the online form below. You can also apply for your Food Registration at the same time.

    Apply now

  5. Pay the upfront fee

    For food businesses, you need to pay an upfront fee of $135. Call 03 8290 1333 or visit one of our Customer Service Centres to make payment. 

  6. We will contact you

    A Council officer will review your plans and send a letter stating whether your plans have been approved. It may also outline conditions you need to meet for approval.

    You can also request one progress inspection as part of your Fit-out Approval. This can be especially useful when not everything in your plans is reflected in your build.

  7. Final inspection

    A final inspection must be carried out at least two days before your opening date. It is your responsibility to book this inspection with our Public Health team.

By post or email

  1. Confirm your business address

    You must confirm the address of your premises before you apply because we can't process your application or provide advice without it.

  2. Receive your Planning Permit, if required

    Apply for and receive your Planning Permit if you need one. Use our Permit Finder if you're unsure what permits you need.

  3. Prepare your documents
    You will need to provide copies of your plans and layout of your fit-out with your application. 

  4. Send your application

    Download and complete the Fit-out Approval Application Form(PDF, 76KB)  and send it with supporting documents to health@stonnington.vic.gov.au

    Or mail to:
    City of Stonnington
    PO Box 58
    Malvern 3144
         
  5. Pay the upfront fee

    For food businesses, you need to pay an upfront fee of $135. Call 03 8290 1333 or visit one of our Customer Service Centres to make payment. 

  6. We will contact you

    A Council officer will review your plans and send a letter stating whether your plans have been approved. It may also outline conditions you need to meet for approval.

    You can also request one progress inspection as part of your Fit-out Approval. This can be especially useful when not everything in your plans is reflected in your build.

  7. Final inspection

    A final inspection must be carried out at least two days before your opening date. It is your responsibility to book this inspection with our Public Health team.

 

 

 

Frequently asked questions

How much does Fit-out Approval cost?

The upfront Fit-out Approval fee (including the inspection) is $135 for food businesses. You will receive a letter that outlines what you need to consider before building or renovating your new business.

How long will it take to get Fit-out Approval?

The application process takes an average of ten business days. 

What documents do I need to apply?

Your application must be accompanied by one copy of plans for the proposed premises showing the use for each room. Plans must be:

  • drawn to scale
  • to a scale of at least 1:100
  • accompanied by specifications for materials and finishes for all surfaces including floors, walls and bench tops.

The plans must also clearly show:

  • all food preparation areas
  • all food storage areas
  • waste disposal area/s
  • bin wash area/s
  • any further storage areas
  • location of toilet/s
  • the layout of all fixtures, fittings and equipment.

What do I do if I have started building without Fit-out Approval?

Fit-out Approval is optional but highly recommended, and you can still get approval after your business has been constructed. You need to book an inspection with one of our Council officers, who will generally be able to visit your premises within two business days. They will let you know if any changes are required.

Book an inspection

 

 

 

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