Renovating a food premises
This page has information for business owners, designers and builders who are creating a food business premises.
There are two guides to help you design and construct a food business to ensure food produced on premises is safe and meets the Food Act 2001.
You should also contact the Health Protection Service in the early stages of planning and design to discuss fit-out requirements.
These guides will ensure that all food premises:
- are able to be easily cleaned and maintained
- have sufficient space, facilities and equipment to produce safe food
- are provided with services such as potable water, effective sewage disposal and sufficient light and ventilation for safe food handling
- provide facilities for staff to maintain personal hygiene
- prevent pests.
Download the ACT Food Business Fit-out Guide [PDF 680 KB].
Download the ACT Mobile Food Business Fit-out Guide [PDF 460KB].
Download the ACT Final Fit-out Inspection Checklist [PDF 735KB].
Connecting to the gas network
When choosing a location in the ACT, be aware that new gas network connections are not allowed in most areas.
If the property has an existing gas connection (there is a gas meter) also be aware of restrictions. If the gas connection is removed (abolished), you may not be allowed to reconnect. Builders sometimes need to remove the gas connection to ensure a safe worksite.
Consider this when choosing a location and think about using electric appliances instead. To find out more, visit our preventing new gas network connections page.
Visit our Sustainable Business Program page for:
- free advice on how to go electric
- rebates on electric appliance upgrades.
To help you plan your transition, you can also use the Your Energy Journey tool.
Apply for a fit-out assessment
Public health officers will check your premises before they approve a food business registration or variation.
To apply for as assessment:
1. Complete the fit-out assessment form {PDF 340KB].
2. Submit your form with any plans and specifications by emailing hps@act.gov.au or online at Food Business Variation or Transfer Application.