If you are thinking of setting up a business, you may have wondered whether you can opening premises without a licence. Maybe you have heard of someone who has done it or you think the process is too complicated and you prefer to start without it. But is it really a good idea?
Opening and activity licence What are they and why do you need them?
Before starting any business activity, it is essential to know what these licences are and why they are necessary for your business to function properly.
The opening licence is a permit issued by the local council to ensure that the premises comply with safety, accessibility and land use regulations. Without this licence, your business could face fines or closure.
On the other hand, the activity licence is necessary for certain businesses that generate risk or nuisance, such as bars, workshops or factories. This licence ensures that your venue complies with additional safety, soundproofing and sanitary regulations.
What happens if you decide to open a business without a licence?
Although the idea of opening a business without a licence seems like a quick fix, the risks outweigh any benefits. If you decide to go down this path, you face serious legal consequences that can negatively impact your business:
High financial penaltiesThe penalties for operating without a licence go as follows from 300€. to 600.000€depending on the infringement. In many cases, fines exceed €6,000 for commercial businesses.- Immediate closure of the businessIn case of inspection, the authorities may order the closure of the premises until the situation is regularised.
- Legal responsibilitiesIf an accident or health incident occurs, the responsible party could face lawsuits and even criminal consequences.
- Problems with insurance and suppliersThe following is a list of some providers: insurers will not cover unlicensed businesses, and some providers require permits in order to set up a business, and some providers require permits in order to set up a business.
rade relations. - Difficulties in regularising the business afterwardsgetting a licence after having operated without one can be much more complicated.
Simple steps to obtain your licences
Obtain the necessary licences to operate your business it's easier than it looksas long as you follow the correct steps and have the right appropriate counselling to avoid mistakes that may delay the opening. Here is a general process you can follow to obtain your opening licence and activity licence:
- Check the local regulations: Each municipality has specific requirements. The first thing to do is to know the regulations that apply to your type of business and make sure that you meet all the requirements.
- Request a technical report: A professional will assess whether your premises meet the technical requirements for obtaining a licence.
- Submit the documentation: Make sure you have the plans, technical report and proof of payment of the relevant fees ready. PBM Engineering is responsible for managing this entire process.
- It awaits approval: Approval time varies from municipality to municipality, but can generally take from a few weeks to several months.
Other permits and certificates you might need
In addition to the licences mentioned above, there are other permits and certificates that may be required for your business to operate legally. Depending on the activity of your business, you may need to obtain a acoustic certificationespecially if your venue generates noise, such as in bars or discotheques.
To carry out all these additional formalities you will need to have a specialist who can help you meet all the requirements quickly and efficiently, such as a engineer who can manage the obtaining of these permits. Whether you need a building permit for renovations on the premises, a health registration if you are working in the food or health sector, or a safety certificate to ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers.
Get things right from the start
Opening a business without a licence may seem like a quick fix, but the consequences are seriousincluding financial penalties, temporary closures of the premises and legal liabilities.
At PBM Engineering We manage all the paperwork and make sure we comply with the regulations from the start. Let our experts help you open your business legally and without complications.
Find out about our skills in Engineer Malaga - Miguel Pulido Bendavid - Chartered Engineer
