The FEHD is the authority responsible for the licensing of food businesses and the issuing of permits for the sale of restricted foods including frozen confections, sushi and sashimi. It also issues licences to places of public entertainment such as theatres, cinemas and entertainment machine centres. In addition, it issues trade licences for commercial bathhouses and offensive trades as well as for private swimming pools. The FEHD also provides support to the Liquor Licensing Board, which is an independent statutory body constituted for the purpose of issuing liquor licences. Board members are appointed by the Chief Executive. The board meets about four times a month to consider applications.

    In 2002, the department received and processed 2 502 applications for food business licences, 1 116 for restricted food permits, 1 154 for places of public entertainment licences, 74 for other trade licences and 655 for liquor and club liquor licences.

    To assist restaurant operators in applying for outside seating accommodation, the department promulgated guidelines for applications in March.