Trade License Registration
Ensure Compliance for Your Business with a Valid Trade License
A Trade License is an official document that grants permission to operate a specific business or trade activity within a designated municipal area. In Delhi, the license is issued by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to regulate and monitor commercial establishments across the city.
Governing Law: Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954
All shops and commercial establishments in Delhi must be registered under this Act within 30 days of starting operations. It governs key aspects of business activity, including:
- Working hours and holiday regulations
- Employment norms for women, children, and young persons
- Provisions related to paid leave, rest intervals, and overtime
- Conditions of service and termination
- Maintenance of employment records
- Fire and accident safety compliance
Who Must Obtain a Trade License?
Any commercial establishment operating within Delhi, including:
- Offices and administrative setups
- Restaurants, cafes, hotels, and boarding houses
- Theatres, cinemas, and places of public entertainment
Why Trade License Is Important
- Ensures your business complies with local laws and safety norms
- Prevents legal actions for unauthorized commercial activity
- Limits liability in case of disputes or accidents
- Enhances trust with customers, banks, and government departments
Documents Required
For New Trade License:
- Identity and address proof (individual/applicant)
- Incorporation Certificate, MOA, and AOA (for companies)
- Bank Statement and cancelled cheque
- Lease Deed or proof of legal occupancy
- NOC from land-owning agency (if applicable)
- Affidavit and trade establishment proof
- Declaration of no unauthorized construction
For Renewal:
- Original Trade License
- Identity and address proof
- G-8 receipt
- Application for renewal
For Duplicate License:
- FIR for lost license
- Indemnity Bond (as per format)
Trade License Fee Structure (Delhi)
Charges vary based on business location and area:
| Category | Area Type | Charges |
| Category A | Conforming/Local Commercial Area | ₹200 up to 10 sq. m
₹500 for 10–20 sq. m ₹50/sq. m above 20 sq. m |
| Category B | Non-Conforming/Household Area | ₹200 up to 10 sq. m
₹500 for 10–20 sq. m ₹50/sq. m above 20 sq. m |
A processing fee of ₹500 (including service charges) is also applicable.
Application Process
Option 1: Online via MCD Portal
- Visit the official MCD website (select North, South, or East DMC region)
- Click on “Trade/Storage License”
- Select “Application for New License”
- Fill in applicant and business details
- Upload required documents
- Submit application and generate Application Number
- Pay license fee online upon notification
- Download license once approved
Option 2: Offline Application
- Visit the licensing department of your local MCD office
- Collect or download the trade license form
- Fill in required details and attach documents
- Submit to the licensing officer
- Pay the applicable fees
- Receive receipt and transaction ID to track your application
Validity & Renewal
The Trade License is valid for three years and must be renewed thereafter by paying the prescribed renewal fee.
How to Check Application Status
To track your application:
- Visit the MCD portal
- Click on “Application Status”
- Enter your application number to view status
Trade License Renewal in Delhi
To renew your license:
- Visit the MCD website
- Click on the “Renewal” link
- Upload the required documents
- Make the renewal fee payment
- Receive updated license after approval
Downloading the Trade License
Once approved, you will be notified via SMS or email. You may then log in to the portal using your application and certificate number and download your trade license.
“Operate Legally. Trade Confidently — With Consult Your Counsel.”