hospo 101: how to get consent

The dream: to finally own your own brick and mortar spot. You’ve got the concept, you’ve got the following from doing pop-ups, food trucks, or catering, and you think you have the perfect location - but what do you need to actually get it working and legal?

This following four f’s is a basic outline of the key compliance elements you need to consider when fitting out a kitchen from scratch to get consent. This is a quick 101 of considerations that a professional will guide you through (such as us!), so you can ensure that your bar, cafe, or restaurant meets the necessary requirements and operates legally. Let's dive into the essential considerations for setting up a hospitality venue in Auckland, and New Zealand beyond.

Fresh Air: Mechanical

To maintain air quality within your restaurant, you'll need a mechanical engineer to design a system that put simply, removes contaminated air and introduces fresh air. This design should include specifications for hoods, fans, ducts, and how fresh air will be reintroduced to the space. In Auckland, you should refer to the Auckland Unitary Plan (or similar where ever you are located) and the Building Code for specific requirements related to ventilation and fresh air in restaurants.

Fluid Management:

Plumbing & Draining

Compliance with the building code for waste water management is essential. You'll need a design approved by the council for connecting sinks and equipment to the sewer system. Additionally, if you're washing dishes, a grease trap will likely be necessary. Consult with a plumber or hydraulic engineer to ensure that your plumbing and drainage system meets your local Council's requirements.

Fire Protection

Ensuring the safety of people in your restaurant during a fire is crucial. This requires specific materials, signage, emergency lighting, and other fire protection elements. Consulting with a fire engineer will help you design the necessary fire safety measures for your space. It's important to comply with the New Zealand Building Code's fire safety requirements and the your Council's regulations for fire protection in restaurants.

Facilitation: Safety and Accessibility

Creating an accessible environment for people with various mobility needs is important. Counter heights, access path widths, toilet sizes, and other factors should align with accessibility requirements. Seek assistance from a designer or accessibility consultant to ensure that your restaurant accommodates all individuals. The New Zealand Building Code and Unitary Plans provide guidelines for accessibility in buildings, including restaurants.

Food Hygiene

Complying with food hygiene regulations is vital to ensure the cleanliness and safety of your restaurant. Requirements include cleanable surfaces, multiple sinks for various purposes, non-slip flooring, and more. These measures help maintain a hygienic environment for food preparation. Familiarize yourself with the New Zealand Food Safety Standards and your Council's food safety requirements to ensure compliance.

Obtaining a building consent for your restaurant in New Zealand involves various compliance requirements related to fresh air, plumbing and drainage, fire protection, accessibility, and food hygiene. It's essential to carefully consider these factors and hire professionals such as engineers, designers, and consultants. These guys take care of the stuff they are good at, so you can take care of the burgers and beers. They can help you navigate the specific requirements set by the Council, the New Zealand Building Code, and other relevant regulations. By following the necessary steps and obtaining the required building consent, you will establish a successful spot that meets all legal and safety requirements.