Why Every Factory in Maharashtra Needs Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals

Maharashtra continues to be a manufacturing powerhouse, hosting hundreds of industrial zones such as MIDC, TTC, Ambernath, and Tarapur. With industrial growth comes the responsibility of operating within legal parameters. Whether you are setting up a new factory or modifying an existing one, two approvals are essential for lawful and uninterrupted operations—Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals.

These compliances are mandated by the Factories Act, 1948 and enforced by the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH), Government of Maharashtra. In this article, we’ll explain what these approvals mean, how to obtain and renew them, and why they are critical for any factory to function smoothly.

What is a Factory License?

A factory license is an official document issued under the Factories Act that certifies a manufacturing unit’s compliance with safety, labor, and building standards. It is compulsory for units employing ten or more workers with power-driven processes, or twenty or more without power.

This license confirms that:

• The facility is structurally safe and stable

• Emergency and fire systems are installed as per norms

• Workers are employed in a safe, legal working environment

• The factory follows all operational protocols for manufacturing

Without this license, no factory can legally begin or continue manufacturing activities.

Role of DISH Plan Approvals

Before applying for a factory license, every factory owner must submit their factory layout to DISH for approval. This layout includes:

• Factory building plan with dimensions

• Machinery arrangement

• Emergency exits and fire safety installations

• Worker movement paths and sanitation areas

This process, known as DISH Plan Approval, ensures that the facility’s physical layout and internal design meet all legal safety requirements. The DISH department reviews the layout and approves it before construction or installation of machinery can proceed.

Getting professional help for Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals can save time and help avoid rejections due to incorrect or non-compliant layouts.

Step-by-Step Process for Factory Licensing

1. Plan Approval
   Submit your architectural and machinery layout to DISH for approval.

2. Application Filing
   Register your factory online through the DISH portal using Form-2.

3. Document Collection
   Prepare key documents including building ownership proof, structural stability certificate, Fire NOC, and list of machinery.

4. Site Inspection
   DISH officers may visit the premises to confirm if the actual site matches the approved plan.

5. Issuance of Factory License
   Once all checks are passed, the license is granted, typically valid for 1 or 3 years.

Operating a factory without completing this process is a punishable offense under Indian labor law.

Documents Required for Licensing

• Factory layout plan approved by DISH

• Application Form 1 and Form 2

• Stability certificate from a licensed structural engineer

• Fire department NOC

• Consent from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB)

• Power sanction letter

• Identity proof of the occupier

• Lease or ownership documents

• Hazardous process details (if applicable)

Even a minor error in documentation may delay your license. That’s why hiring an expert for Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals is a smart move.

Importance of Factories License Renewal

A factory license is not a one-time requirement. It must be renewed periodically to remain valid. Typically, the license is issued for 1 year or 3 years, depending on your initial application. The renewal process must begin at least 30 days before expiration.

The renewal process includes:

• Online application for renewal

• Uploading of latest safety audit reports

• Payment of applicable government fees

• Re-inspection if structural or operational changes have occurred

Delayed renewal may attract penalties, and in severe cases, your license may be suspended or cancelled. A missed deadline can bring factory operations to a halt, impacting production and deliveries.

To avoid last-minute rush and compliance issues, companies often seek support for factories license renewal through experienced consultants.

Common Reasons for Rejection or Delay

Even with the best intentions, factories face delays or rejections in licensing due to:

• Incorrect or outdated layout plans

• Missing NOCs from fire or pollution control boards

• Lack of structural stability certificates

• Errors in online submission or fee payment

• Not updating DISH about process or machinery changes

These are avoidable errors if professionals handle your compliance journey from Day 1.

When Do You Need to Reapply for Plan Approvals?

Any structural or operational change requires fresh DISH Plan Approval. These include:

• Expansion of factory area

• Addition of new machines

• Change in hazardous processes

• Movement of critical equipment

• Alteration of fire exits or emergency access paths

Ignoring this step leads to issues during license renewal and even penalties. All such changes should be informed to DISH, followed by a modified layout submission for approval.

Benefits of Full Compliance

Getting and maintaining proper Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals brings multiple long-term benefits:

• Legal protection from factory act violations

• Peace of mind during audits or inspections

• Easier access to bank loans and subsidies

• Trust from clients, vendors, and employees

• Smoother expansion and diversification efforts

It also improves your factory’s image and helps in qualifying for ISO certifications and global supply chain programs.

Expert Support for Licensing and Renewal

The factory licensing process may appear complex, especially for new businesses. A qualified consultant helps you with:

• Designing layouts that follow DISH norms

• Online application and document upload

• Coordination with DISH for inspections

• On-time factories license renewal

• Tracking compliance updates from authorities

Partnering with experts ensures you avoid common pitfalls and manage your factory setup or renewal without stress.

Final Thoughts

Every manufacturing unit, whether big or small, must secure valid Factory License and DISH Plan Approvals to legally operate in Maharashtra. These are not just mandatory steps but key components of responsible industrial governance. From initial layout approval to final renewal, every step matters in keeping your business compliant, safe, and future-ready. Instead of dealing with repeated follow-ups or potential errors, smart factory owners now trust expert consultants to manage their licensing and compliance end-to-end. If your factory’s future depends on seamless approvals, take control today — stay compliant, stay successful.