08. 10. 2026.
Do you always need your own business premises to run a craft business?
Not necessarily. If your work doesn't require a permanent workspace and you mainly provide services at your clients' premises or on-site, you may be able to operate without one.
Montenegro's new Rulebook on Minimum Technical Requirements for Craft Businesses sets out clearer rules for business premises, equipment and working conditions, including for craftspeople who work at clients' locations.
WHEN CAN YOU WORK WITHOUT YOUR OWN BUSINESS PREMISES?
Under the new rules, craftspeople whose work does not require a permanent workspace and is mainly carried out at clients' locations or on-site can operate without having their own business premises.
Importantly, a client's property where the work is performed is not considered the craftsperson's business premises.
This is particularly relevant for trades and services that are normally carried out at the customer's location.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS STILL APPLY?
Working without dedicated business premises doesn't mean there are no rules to follow.
Although the requirements relating to business premises do not apply to craftspeople working on-site, they must still comply with regulations covering tools and equipment, materials, protective gear, documentation and waste disposal.
When working at a client's property or another location, craftspeople must:
Tools, equipment and materials must also be transported, handled and used safely to prevent damage and avoid risks to people or the environment.
WHAT IF YOU OPERATE FROM BUSINESS PREMISES?
Craft businesses that operate from dedicated premises must meet certain minimum technical standards.
The workspace must be suitable for the type and scale of work being carried out and provide safe, practical working conditions.
Depending on the activity, this may include adequate lighting, ventilation, sanitation facilities and other necessary infrastructure.
Additional requirements apply to activities involving higher hygiene risks, as well as technical, repair and construction trades.
CAN YOU RUN A CRAFT BUSINESS FROM A MOBILE UNIT?
Yes. The new rules also allow certain craft activities to be carried out from mobile units.
Depending on the nature of the work, this could include a vehicle, trailer, prefabricated unit or another type of mobile workspace.
The unit must be properly maintained, in good working condition and equipped to ensure the safety of customers, tools, equipment and materials.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE?
Before renting or buying premises for your craft business, it's worth checking whether you actually need them.
If you mainly work at your clients' locations or on-site and your activity doesn't require a permanent workspace, you may be able to operate without dedicated business premises.
However, you'll still need to meet all other applicable requirements relating to workplace safety, tools, equipment, materials and customer protection.
Before registering your business or starting work, make sure you understand the specific requirements that apply to your trade.
