The best way to obtain a Restaurant license Alicante

Opening a restaurant in Alicante is one of the most exciting and rewarding investments entrepreneurs can make in Spain.

However, obtaining a restaurant license in Alicante can be a complex process if you are not familiar with the necessary procedures and requirements.

At QEE Ingeniería, our team of architects and engineers specializes in business activity licenses in Alicante. We have helped hundreds of clients navigate regulations smoothly and successfully.

In this guide, we will take you step by step through the entire process—from securing your restaurant business license to understanding the technical and administrative details you need to consider.

After all, who doesn’t love welcoming guests with great food and fine wine, ensuring they always come back for more?

1. Consult the Alicante City Council and the Generalitat Valenciana About the Restaurant Business License

It is essential for business owners to visit the Alicante City Council and the Generalitat Valenciana to gather preliminary information.

For example, you should clarify the type of activity, costs, requirements, and the expected timeframes to obtain your restaurant license in Alicante.

Having this information in advance will help you navigate the following steps more confidently and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

2. Consult a Specialist Engineer or Licensing Expert

Working with a specialized business license consultancy from the very beginning can make a significant difference when opening your restaurant in Alicante.

A key advantage is ensuring that you choose a location that meets all regulatory requirements quickly and efficiently.

At QEE Ingeniería, our team of architects and engineers has in-depth knowledge of the Alicante City Council’s regulations for restaurant licenses.

3. Analyze the Requirements for a Restaurant License in Alicante

One of the key aspects of obtaining a restaurant business license in Alicante is meeting the technical requirements that ensure the safety of the premises and compliance with local regulations.

Below are some of the most important requirements:

Acoustic Study for Restaurants

It is essential to ensure that the noise levels generated inside and outside the restaurant comply with the limits established by local regulations. A proper acoustic study helps prevent future complaints and ensures compliance with legal requirements.

Accessibility and Restrooms for Restaurants

Your restaurant must be accessible to all customers. This includes installing ramps, providing adapted restrooms for people with reduced mobility, and designing spaces that allow safe and comfortable movement for all users.

Electrical and Ventilation Study

The electrical system must be adapted to the restaurant’s energy demands, especially for kitchens that require high power consumption.
The ventilation system must ensure proper air circulation, preventing the buildup of gases and unpleasant odors, which is crucial for both customer comfort and regulatory compliance.

4. Finding the Right Location to Open a Restaurant in Alicante

As mentioned earlier, choosing the right commercial space is one of the most crucial steps in opening a restaurant in Alicante.

Not all spaces are suitable for restaurant operations, as they must meet a series of technical and regulatory requirements. Additionally, it’s important to assess the extent of renovations needed to adapt the premises to the necessary standards.

At this stage, key factors to consider include:

The possibility of obtaining a license transfer (traspaso de licencia).
Legal and urban planning requirements imposed by the Alicante City Council.
The renovation and adaptation work needed to comply with health, safety, and accessibility regulations.

5. Feasibility Study of the Premises for a Restaurant License

Before making any commitments, we strongly recommend having a specialized technician conduct a feasibility study of the selected premises.

This study will verify essential aspects such as:

✅ Compliance with local regulations for restaurant activity.

✅ Necessary renovation work to meet licensing requirements.

✅ Space distribution and layout to ensure operational efficiency.

A detailed feasibility analysis can save you time and money, helping you avoid unexpected obstacles in the licensing process.

6. How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant?

Get in touch with us for a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your restaurant project.

7. Request the Urban Compatibility Report for Your Restaurant

An important initial step in obtaining a restaurant business license in Alicante is requesting the Urban Compatibility Report (CCU).

Although it is not mandatory to start operations, this document—issued by the Alicante City Council—confirms whether your restaurant’s intended use aligns with local urban planning regulations.

8. Submit the Opening License Application to the Alicante City Council

You must submit the appropriate business opening license form to the Alicante City Council. The most common form is Model 02, which must be completed and submitted along with the required documentation to initiate the approval process.

9. Hire Legal and Tax Consultancy Services

Beyond the opening license and technical procedures, there are legal and tax requirements you must comply with, such as:

Business Tax Registration (IAE) – Required for any commercial establishment.

Social Security Registration – Employees must be registered to comply with labor laws.
A legal and tax consultancy will assist you in managing these obligations efficiently throughout your business journey.

10. Acoustic and Electrical Audits by OCAS

Both the acoustic study and electrical compliance study are essential to obtaining a restaurant activity license in Alicante.

These audits must be conducted by OCAS, a certified entity that ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

11. Restaurant Safety Requirements

A safety plan is a crucial document for opening a restaurant, ensuring the establishment meets all safety and protection measures for employees and customers. These include:

Fire extinguishers and suppression systems

Evacuation routes and emergency exits

Emergency signage and lighting

12. Registering Your Restaurant with the Tourism Authority

To operate legally, your restaurant must be registered with the Valencian Community’s Tourism Department.

Official registration link:
Generalitat Valenciana – Restaurant Registration

Restaurants fall under Group I (Restaurants) and are classified based on quality, services, and compliance with technical requirements:

One Fork – Basic facilities and services meeting minimum standards.

Two Forks – Higher quality facilities and services, with a strong focus on gastronomy, ambiance, and customer experience.

Three Forks – Premium restaurants distinguished by exceptional facilities, top-tier service, and outstanding cuisine.

Official Certification Badge

Upon completing your restaurant registration with the Valencian Tourism Authority, your business will receive an official certification badge.

This badge is not only a legal requirement but also a mark of trust that assures customers your restaurant meets the official tourism and quality standards set by the Valencian Community.

13. Health Registration for Restaurants

The health registration is mandatory for all restaurants that handle food. This registration, processed through the Valencian Health Department, ensures that the establishment complies with all hygiene and sanitary regulations to prevent health risks.

Kitchen and food storage areas.
Water supply and sanitation systems.
Waste management and disposal procedures.

Only after successfully passing these inspections will the restaurant receive its health registration, which is essential for legal operation.

Required Documents for a Restaurant Business License

To obtain a restaurant opening license in Alicante, you must submit several essential documents, including:

Copy of ID (DNI/NIE) – Proof of identity for the responsible applicant.
Land Registry Reference (Referencia Catastral) – Identifies the exact location of the restaurant.
Lease Contract or Property Deed – Confirms the applicant’s legal right to operate at the location.
Restaurant Floor Plans – Must indicate kitchen, dining areas, restrooms, emergency exits, and must be signed by an architect or engineer.
Liability Insurance – Covers potential damages to third parties during restaurant operations.
Technical Report & Project – Describes the restaurant’s characteristics, safety measures, and compliance with regulations.

Fees for Opening a Restaurant in Alicante

The timeline for obtaining a restaurant opening license in Alicante varies based on:

The condition of the premises.
The complexity of required renovations.
Compliance with technical and legal requirements.
On average, the approval process takes 2 to 4 months.

However, delays may occur if additional modifications or documents are required.

How to Obtain a Restaurant Opening License in Alicante?

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