This page explains the licences you may need and things to consider when opening a home-based business in Auckland.
Check before you start
Zoning
Contact us to check if you can operate a business in your neighbourhood. There are areas that do not allow commercial activity under the Auckland Unitary Plan.
To find out which zone you live in, type your address into GeoMaps and check the 'Zone category' in the results. For fact sheets about different zone types, visit What can I do in my zone?
You may also face restrictions in zones where the activity causes:
- excessive traffic
- noise or odours that disturb neighbours.
There also may be restrictions on areas with:
- no-exit roads
- high-density housing
- a lack of parking.
Building or resource consent
If you need to modify your house to accommodate the business, you may need to apply for building or resource consent. Visit What is a consent and do you need one for more information.
Landlord's permission
If you are renting the property, you will need the landlord's permission to operate a business from the site.
Check if you need a licence
Home-based nail technicians, beauty therapists, tattooists, massage therapists, acupuncturists and hairdressers will need a Health and beauty licence.
If you want to operate a low-impact business, like consulting or online retail, there are still rules you need follow. Contact us on 09 301 0101 to speak to a planner.
What you need to do to run a home-based food business
Home-based food businesses have the same rules as any commercial property preparing food for customers. You need to register your business with us under either a Food Control Plan or National Programme.
If you are a home-based baker that only makes cakes that do not require refrigeration and are sold directly to consumers, you may not need to operate under either.
To find out which one your business should operate under, visit My food rules tool.
Once you know your registration type, Apply for food registration.
Your business will also need to be checked by us or an approved verifier within six weeks of opening. Visit Apply for food verification for more information.
Preparation and storage of food
- Is there enough space in your fridge and in your pantry to properly store the amount of food you plan to make?
- How will you keep family food separate from commercial food?
- How will you store ingredients containing allergens separate from allergen-free food for sale?
- How will you ensure that other activities at home will not compromise when commercial food is being prepared?
- Will your kitchen equipment and storage facilities be suitable for doing the things you plan to do?
- Is there a place to wash your hands before you start preparing food?
Keeping food safe
- Do you know enough to make sure the food you sell is safe?
- Will everyone working at the business know how to handle the food safely?
- How will you operate when there are sick family members at home?
- How will you transport the food safely?
Where to get help for food home-based businesses
Email us at hosposupport@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz if you want help or advice.