Health Certificate & Trading Licence Documentation Pack

Two documents determine whether your food or trade business is legally allowed to operate. Most small business owners don't have both — and don't know the difference.

This pack cuts through the confusion and gives you everything you need to apply for, maintain, and display your Certificate of Acceptability (COA) and Business/Trading Licence in South Africa. Written in plain language, grounded in the actual legislation, and structured to get you compliant fast.

What's inside:

• Clear explanation of the COA vs. Trading Licence — what each is, who needs it, and why
• Quick-reference table: does your business type require a Trading Licence?
• Step-by-step COA application process with the City of Johannesburg
• Document checklist for both applications
• Inspection readiness guide — what the EHP will check on your premises
• Fee schedules, renewal timelines, and display requirements
• Ready-to-use templates for record-keeping

Compiled against: Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972 | Regulation R638 of 2018 | Businesses Act 71 of 1991 (verified April 2026)

Ideal for: Food businesses, spaza shops, restaurants, caterers, tuck shops, market vendors, and anyone applying for a trading licence in South Africa.