Factory Licence
Required under the Factories Act before a manufacturing unit starts.
Reviewed by CA Hitendra Pal Singh· company law, tax and complianceLast reviewed
A premises with ten or more workers using power (twenty without) is a factory and must be licensed by the state factories department after plan approval. The licence sets the permitted workforce and horsepower and is renewed annually or for multi-year blocks. Most states also require it before the pollution board will issue Consent to Operate.
What is included
- Plan approval application
- Licence application on the state portal
- Inspection coordination
- Licence certificate
- Renewal and annual-return reminders
What we will need from you
- Building plans and layout
- Land ownership or lease
- List of machinery with horsepower
- Certificate of Incorporation or partnership deed
- Consent to Establish
- Occupier’s and manager’s details
How long it takes
Typically 30–60 working days including plan approval.
Timelines are typical, not guaranteed. Government processing times vary, and a query from the officer adds to them. We will tell you where yours stands.
Common questions
Does a small workshop count?
Ten workers with power or twenty without is the line; below it the Shop and Establishment registration applies instead.