Cleaning Business Licence
The Cleaning Business Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for businesses engaged in cleaning services in Singapore. The licence is valid for 2 years, with processing typically completed within 14 working days.
- Validity
- 2 Years
- Processing time
- within 14 working days
- Issuing authority
- NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY (NEA)
Need help applying for this licence?
We handle the full application — document prep, agency liaison, follow-up — alongside your incorporation.
Who needs the Cleaning Business Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
- Required to operateDivision 81 — CLEANING AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES
Includes: 81211 General cleaning services (except household cleaning), 81212 Domestic/household cleaning services, 81291 Pest control services not in connection with agriculture, 81292 Cleaning, maintenance and/or treatment of swimming pools, spa pools, water playgrounds and fountains
What's involved in getting the Cleaning Business Licence
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Cleaning Business Licence permits a business to operate legally in the cleaning services sector in Singapore. This includes a range of activities such as residential cleaning, commercial cleaning, and specialized cleaning services.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, certain conditions must be met. These include having a suitable business structure in place, ensuring that staff are adequately trained, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. Additionally, businesses must demonstrate that they have the necessary equipment and resources to provide cleaning services effectively.
How the agency reviews and decides
The NEA conducts a thorough review of the application, which may include a site inspection to assess the business's operations and compliance with relevant standards. The agency evaluates the documentation submitted to ensure that all requirements are met before granting the licence.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Cleaning Business Licence can stall for various reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, failure to meet health and safety standards, or discrepancies in the information provided. Ensuring that all prerequisites are fulfilled and that the business complies with NEA regulations can help prevent delays in the application process.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- Applicable for new applicants applying for the FIRST time
- Please refer to this checklist if you are applying for a Cleaning Business Licence for the first time: https://www.nea.gov.sg/docs/default-source/our-services/public-cleanliness/cleaning-business-licensing/checklist-for-new-applicants.pdf
- Applicable for applicants renewing their licence
Cleaning Business Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, obtaining the Cleaning Business Licence is essential for legally operating a cleaning service in Singapore. Without this licence, a business may face penalties and legal issues.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your cleaning business can legally offer a variety of cleaning services, including residential, commercial, and specialized cleaning, allowing you to operate within the regulatory framework set by the NEA.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating a cleaning business without the Cleaning Business Licence can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential legal action. It is crucial to obtain the licence to avoid these risks.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
Obtaining the Cleaning Business Licence is a separate process from incorporating your company. It is advisable to secure the licence after your business is incorporated to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is incomplete documentation. Ensuring that all required documents are submitted and that they meet NEA standards is critical for a successful application.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the Cleaning Business Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the NEA.
Get a quote — incorporation + this licence
We package this with your company setup so you launch with the licence already approved.
Other NEA licences
Aquatic Facility Licence
The Aquatic Facility Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for any business operating an aquatic facility in Singapore. The licence is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years, with processing typically taking 30 working days.
Funeral Parlour Licence
The Funeral Parlour Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) in Singapore for businesses operating funeral parlours with embalming facilities and crematoria. The validity period is agency-confirmed, and processing time details can be found on the agency's website.
General Waste Collector Licence
The General Waste Collector Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for businesses involved in waste collection in Singapore. The licence is valid for 1 year, with processing typically completed in 7 working days upon receipt of all required documents.
General Waste Disposal Facility Licence
The General Waste Disposal Facility Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for businesses operating waste disposal facilities in Singapore. The validity varies based on the specific licence type, and processing typically takes up to 30 working days upon receipt of the complete documentation.
Hazardous Substances (HS) Licence
The Hazardous Substances (HS) Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for businesses handling hazardous substances in Singapore. The licence is valid for five years, with processing typically completed in 30 working days upon receipt of complete documentation.
Hazardous Substances (HS) Permit
The Hazardous Substances (HS) Permit is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for any entity wishing to purchase, store, or use hazardous substances regulated under Singapore's Environmental Protection and Management (Hazardous Substances) Regulations. The permit is valid for 5 years, with processing typically taking 30 working days upon receipt of a complete submission.