Licence
Opening a Café in Andalucía: Understanding the Licence Timeline
7 Jul 2026 · EBB Editorial
Licencia de Apertura, planning permissions and why your timeline matters more than finding the cheapest rent.
📌 Quick Overview
*Who is this for? · Anyone opening a café, bar or restaurant in Andalucía
*Difficulty · ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
*Professional Help · Highly recommended
*Biggest Risk · Signing a lease before checking the licensing position
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⚠️ The Biggest Mistake We See
Many people find a great location, agree the rent, sign the lease...
...and **only then** discover the premises can't be licensed for the business they want to open.
That can mean paying rent on a property that can't trade while you wait months for permissions, building works or even a change of use.
💡 EBB Advice
Work backwards from your opening day—not forwards from the day you find a property.
Your Typical Timeline
🟦 Step 1 – Find the Right Premises
Before you agree anything, check:
✅ Does the property already have a hospitality licence?
✅ Was it previously used as a café, bar or restaurant?
✅ Are there any planning restrictions?
✅ Will the council allow your intended use?
✅ Does the property need major alterations?
**Goal:** Make sure the premises is actually suitable before committing.
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