What Certificates Do You Need for a Mobile Catering Van or Trailer in the UK

Starting a mobile catering van or trailer business in the UK is exciting — but before you serve your first cup of coffee or hot meal, you need to make sure your setup meets all legal and safety rules. This guide explains which certificates you need, why they matter, and how often they must be renewed.

These certificates keep your catering unit safe, compliant, and ready for events, shows, or roadside trading.

1. Food Hygiene Certificate

Anyone handling or preparing food in a mobile catering unit must understand food hygiene. While the law doesn’t require you to hold a printed certificate, completing a Level 2 Food Hygiene and Safety course proves your knowledge and helps you meet council expectations.

Most local authorities and event organisers will ask to see your certificate when you register your food business. Online courses are easy to complete in one day and valid across the UK.

2. Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)

If your van or trailer has any electrical wiring, sockets, lights, or connects to a generator or mains supply, you’ll need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
A qualified electrician will test the system to make sure it’s safe and meets BS 7671 Section 717 for mobile or transportable units.

Your EICR for a catering van covers:

• Fixed wiring, sockets, and protective devices
• Power inlets (shore connection or generator)
• Earthing and bonding to metal bodywork and sinks
• RCD/RCBO protection (30 mA)
• Compliance with the latest wiring standards

Event organisers and insurance companies often ask for an annual inspection for mobile catering electrical systems. Keeping an up-to-date EICR helps prevent fires and ensures customer safety.

3. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

Your catering van will likely have plug-in items such as coffee machines, kettles, fridges, or microwaves. These need Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) to confirm they’re safe to use. Although not a strict legal requirement, PAT testing is strongly recommended — especially for trading at festivals, markets, or events. Keep a PAT testing checklist and label each appliance with the test date and next due date.

4. Gas Safety Certificate (LPG)

If your catering unit uses gas (like LPG for griddles, fryers, or coffee machines), you must have a Gas Safety Certificate. Only a Gas Safe registered engineer with mobile catering qualifications can issue this.

They’ll check:

• All gas appliances
• Pipework and hoses
• Pressure and ventilation
• Emergency shut-off valves

You should renew your gas certificate every year. LPG safety is vital for both indoor and outdoor trading events.

5. Public Liability Insurance

Even though it’s not a physical certificate, public liability insurance is essential. It protects your business if a customer is injured or property is damaged because of your catering setup. Most councils, landowners, and event organisers require you to show valid insurance before granting permission to trade. Make sure your policy clearly covers mobile catering vans, trailers, and events.

6. Fire Risk Assessment and Fire Safety Equipment

Every mobile catering unit should have a fire risk assessment and proper fire safety gear on board. This includes suitable extinguishers, a fire blanket, and clear instructions for staff.

Regularly check that fire extinguishers are in date and correctly rated for electrical or gas fires. Many councils or event organisers will check this before you start trading.

7. Vehicle, Trailer, and Road Safety

If you’re towing a catering trailer or driving a catering van, it must meet UK road and safety laws.
That means:

• A valid MOT if required
• Proper business-use insurance
• Working lights, brakes, tyres, and towing gear
• Keeping your trailer roadworthy also makes it safer for customers and event operators.

8. Street Trading Consent and Planning Permission

If you’re trading from public areas or car parks, you’ll likely need Street Trading Consent from your local council.
Even with consent, some locations — like picnic spots or lay-bys — may still need planning permission, especially if your trailer stays in one place for long periods. If your van moves daily or trades temporarily at events, planning permission may not be needed, but always confirm with your council first.

Quick Certificate Checklist

• Certificate / Check Purpose
• Food Hygiene Certificate Proves safe food handling knowledge
• Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR) Ensures safe wiring and electrics
• PAT Testing Confirms plug-in appliances are safe
• Gas Safety Certificate (LPG) Checks all gas appliances and pipework
• Public Liability Insurance Protects against injury or damage claims
• Fire Risk Assessment Confirms fire safety equipment and plan
• MOT / Road Safety Ensures the van or trailer is road-legal
• Street Trading Consent Allows trading in public or local areas

 The Bottom Line

Running a mobile catering business in the UK requires more than good food — it needs safety, training, and the right paperwork. Keeping all your certificates current — from food hygiene and EICR electrical safety to LPG gas checks and public liability insurance — helps protect your business, your customers, and your reputation.Always check your local council’s website before trading, as requirements can vary between areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need planning permission if I already have Street Trading Consent? Sometimes yes — if your catering trailer stays in one place for a long time or becomes a semi-permanent fixture. Check with your local planning department.
• How often should I renew my EICR? For mobile catering vans and trailers, an annual electrical inspection is recommended.
• Is PAT testing mandatory? Not legally required, but most councils, events, and insurance companies expect current PAT records.
• Who can issue a Gas Safety Certificate? Only a Gas Safe engineer qualified for mobile catering vehicles.
• Do I need to register my food business?Yes. You must register your mobile catering business with your local council at least 28 days before you start trading.
• Can I trade from my own driveway or private land? Usually yes, but check local council rules. Some areas may still require consent or planning approval.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Always confirm requirements with your local council, qualified electrician, and Gas Safe engineer before trading.