Food Stalls - COA Certificates

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:56:40 GMT

In South Africa, a Certificate of Acceptability (COA), often called a "Food Handling Certificate," is a mandatory permit for food businesses, issued by your local municipality after an Environmental Health Practitioner inspects your premises for health and hygiene compliance with Regulation R638.It proves your facility meets standards for food storage, preparation, waste management, pest control, and staff training, and must be displayed publicly; failure to get one or display it can lead to penalties.What it is & Why You Need ItLegal Requirement: Essential for operating any food-related business (restaurants, cafes, food stalls, etc.).Compliance: Shows you meet the minimum health and hygiene standards for food premises.Not a Business License: It's a health permit; you still need other licenses. How to Apply (General Steps)Prepare Premises: Ensure cleanliness, proper equipment, running water, waste disposal, and pest control.Staff Training: Food handlers need training on hygiene.Gather Documents: Get your floor plan, ID copies, business registration, zoning permit, etc., as required by your specific municipality.Apply: Submit your application and documents to your local municipal health department.Inspection: An inspector visits to check compliance.Display: Once approved, display the COA visibly. Key AuthoritiesLocal Municipality: Your local council/town/district municipality (Department of Environmental Management) issues and renews the COA.Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP): The inspector who assesses your premises. Key RegulationR638:2018: The core regulation under the that governs food premises and handling in South Africa.

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Food Stalls - COA Certificates