Permits and Licences Environmental legislation in England and Wales is broadly similar to that which applies in Ireland. Much of the legislation has a common European Union origin. Environmental legislation was reformed and streamlined in April 2008. Existing pollution prevention and control permits and waste management licences automatically became “environmental permits” on that date. Environmental […]
The approach of EU Law The European Union has harmonised product standards across numerous areas in order to facilitate free movement of goods throughout the EU. Numerous Directives have been made at EU level which has become law in England and Wales setting out the minimum standards for products and goods over the last […]
Medical Products Manufacturers of medicinal products and their premises must be licensed. Medicinal products must not be put on the market unless they have a market authorization. A manufacturer must obtain authorisation from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority or an equivalent EU state body. The Authority must be satisfied the product is suitable […]
Shops A licence is not required to operate most types of shops and retail businesses. The sale of some types of goods may require a licence or may require compliance with certain standards or requirements. A local authority licence is usually required in order to sell goods in a public place or to operate as […]
Vehicle Standards Most motor vehicles and vehicle components require approval. There are common European Union standards in relation to standards for vehicles and vehicle parts and in relation to approval. The Road Vehicles (Construction & Use) Regulations set out the required standards. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) makes checks when registering vehicles for […]
Hotels and Accommodation Hotels and other sleeping establishments must display a notice stating accommodation rates. It must be displayed in a prominent position at the reception or entrance. Maximum and minimum accommodation charges must be stated. Certain other details are required. Hoteliers must keep a record of guests’ names and nationalities. The guest’s name and […]
Overview A primary food producer must meet food safety and hygiene requirements. A producer, processor or distributor must be registered with the competent authority, usually the local food authority. A manufacturer or handler of animal products may need to obtain approval from the Food Standards Agency or the local food authority. A business identification mark […]
Estate Agents and Auctioneers An estate agent does not require a licence, as such. However, an estate agent must comply with rules and requirements under the Estate Agents Act. The legislation provides for codes and standards of conduct. There are requirements in relation to dealing with clients, clients’ money and other aspects of the business. […]
Planning and Environment Law Planning law plays a key role in development. Building standards are laid down in the Building Regulations. See our guides in relation to the planning process, planning bodies, planning development conditions and building regulations. These are in our Commercial Property Guide, which is available on our website An Environmental Impact Assessment […]
Financial Conduct Authority Financial services are subject to detailed and sophisticated regulation. Most businesses in the banking, insurance, brokerage and investment sphere must be authorised by the FCA in the United Kingdom. The FCA is the United Kingdom-wide body covering England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The various types of business are each subject […]