Question 1

Do you need planning permission for a dark kitchen in the UK?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the council. In England, some local planning authorities treat a dark kitchen as falling within Class E(g)(iii), light industrial, in which case a change from another Class E use may not need permission. Others treat it as sui generis, which means permission is required. Camden took enforcement action on that basis in 2018, and a later appeal against Birmingham City Council also found the use to be sui generis. The position is confirmed with the local planning authority before a lease is signed.

Question 2

Do dark kitchens get a food hygiene rating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Registration triggers a local authority inspection, and in England, Wales and Northern Ireland that produces a Food Hygiene Rating Scheme score from 0 to 5, published on the FSA website. Scotland uses the Food Hygiene Information Scheme, with a result of Pass or Improvement Required. Displaying the sticker at the premises is required by law in Wales and Northern Ireland and is voluntary in England.

Question 3

How do you start a dark kitchen from home?

Accepted Answer

A home kitchen selling food commercially is still a food business and still has to register with the local authority 28 days before trading, which the FSA states applies to sales made through social media and e-commerce sites as well. The inspection and the rating follow. Delivery platforms and brand licensors then apply their own rules, and some exclude home kitchens or require a commercial specification.

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