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Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS)

Starting a farm

Step-by-step guide to starting a farm or breeding facility

Last updated 8 November 2025

If you have identified new premises for the farming or ornamental fish breeding activities, you will first need to obtain an in-principle, no objection letter from us. 

Before commitment to lease or purchase any newly identified premises, you need to seek necessary clearance from relevant agencies. 

Follow the steps below:

1. Seek an in-principle, no objection from AVS.

Please submit the information via this online form: 

General information 

  • Company profile from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) (if available) 

  • Document stating building and landowner’s permission to use the space for farming 

  • Tenure of leased premises (if available) 

  • (For existing farms) Current farm productivity figures and target annual production 

Business proposal 

  • Brief description of your proposal to operate a farm or breeding facility. This should include the location of the premises. Note that URA has restrictions for visitors amenities on farm land. 

  • Layout plans, including the type and dimension of facilities (e.g. holding area, packing area, lab area, office, etc.) planned for farming or breeding activities 

  • Brief description of the technology and farming system used 

  • Types of animals to be farmed or bred 

  • Biosecurity measures to be implemented on the premises, or other plans to be implemented in the event of disease outbreak 

  • Chemicals and/or medication that are intended for use 

  • Marketing plan 

  • Construction & renovation period 

  • Expertise, years of relevant experience and CVs of owner and staff 

  • Any other relevant information (e.g. projected income & expenditure for the business) 

2. Seek approval and clearance from relevant agencies.

Submit the application for change of use from URA if premise is not approved for intended farming activity. 

If a land-based farm is to be set up, engage a qualified person (architect or professional engineer) to submit farm plans to us for clearance, and building plan approval to BCA using the Corenet e-submission system. 

If an indoor farm is to be set up, engage a qualified person (architect or professional engineer) for your renovation works. 

When the premises are ready for commercial production following completion of the above steps, please proceed to apply for a licence. We will conduct a site visit before issuance of the licence.