Shops and establishment registration

Shops and establishments are regulated by state law, not central law. Each state has its own Act, forms, fees and portal. This page explains the general idea and uses Maharashtra as a worked example.

Who needs it

Usually any shop, office, commercial establishment, restaurant, hotel or place of entertainment that employs people. Many states also cover businesses with no employees. Factories under the Factories Act are usually outside it.

Banks often ask for this certificate (sometimes called a shop act licence or gumasta) as proof of business address when you open a current account.

Example: Maharashtra (2017 Act)

Workers	What to do	Deadline
10 or more	Apply online for registration	within 60 days of starting business
Fewer than 10	Give an online intimation with a self-declaration	within 60 days of starting business
Business closes	Tell the Facilitator	within 30 days of closing

• If the workforce later reaches 10, the full Act applies and you must register.
• Working hours: no more than 9 hours a day and 48 hours a week, with a break of at least 30 minutes after 5 hours of continuous work.
• Women may work between 7 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. Night work needs their consent plus safety and transport arrangements.
• A 2025 amendment bill proposed raising the 10-worker limit to 20. Whether it is now in force: Needs review
• Fees: Needs review

Other states

Rules differ on thresholds, fees, renewal and hours. Check your state labour department’s portal, or the local municipal body in some cities. Needs review for each state.

Related registrations

• GST registration, if turnover crosses the limit
• Udyam registration, for MSME benefits