20 July 2025
Yes, you do need to take a license under the Shop and Establishment Act for your ready-made garments business, unless specifically exempted in your state (which is rare).
โ Why You Need the License
The Shop and Establishment Act is a state-specific law that regulates:
Working hours Weekly holidays Employment of staff Wage payments Leave policies Record keeping Health and safety in shops/commercial establishments If you own or operate any commercial establishment like a:
Retail shop (e.g., garment store) Showroom Office Warehouse or godown You are legally required to register under this Act.
๐ข Applies Even If:
You are the sole owner You do not employ any staff (in many states) Your business is online but operates from a physical office/store ๐ Process Overview
While it differs slightly from state to state, the general process is:
Apply online through the state's Labour Department website (or municipal portal in some cases) Submit required documents: PAN and Aadhar of owner Rental agreement or property tax bill (as address proof) Details of business (name, nature, employees) Photograph of the premises Pay nominal registration fee (varies by number of employees and state) Get the Shop Act Registration Certificate within 7โ15 working days ๐ Example:
If you're running a garment shop in Mumbai, you'll register under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017, via the MCGM (BMC) online portal.
๐ Penalty for Non-Registration
Failure to register may lead to:
Fines Legal action by labour inspectors Trouble opening bank accounts or getting trade licenses โ Final Answer:
Yes, you need to register your garment business under the Shop and Establishment Act in your state โ itโs a basic legal requirement for running a commercial establishment.