How Will Miami Business Lawyers Help You?

The restaurant business has an almost unmatched allure for entrepreneurs. But it’s also one of the most highly regulated industries of any sector, and failure to obtain the various licenses that are required can put an immediate and costly end to your venture. If you are considering purchasing or founding a restaurant, prepare to acquire some or all of the following licenses with the help of qualified Miami Business Lawyers.

Business License

In order to legally operate, every business must be recognized by local, state, and federal authorities. In addition to filing your founding documents with the Florida Department of Revenue, your restaurant business must be licensed by a municipal or county government. The application process and specific permits vary by jurisdiction.

Building License

Also known as an , this license is issued by local fire and safety commissions and certifies that your restaurant’s location is safe for public use. It requires that your establishment have working and identifiable fire extinguishers, fire escapes, and emergency exits. Depending on the municipality, you might also be required to demonstrate safety precautions from a tornado, flood, or hurricane.

Food Handling and Safety License

It goes without saying that this license is critical to any legitimate restaurant business. It requires owners as well as managers to complete mandatory training in proper food handling and sanitation. At least one individual with this license must be onsite during operating hours. As with other licenses, the application process varies by locality, though it usually entails both a course certification and an onsite inspection.

Liquor License

If you plan to sell alcohol, this may be one of the more difficult licenses to obtain, depending on the local jurisdiction. Some cities will grant certifications to any restaurant, while others place special restrictions, such as only allowing a certain number within a particular subdivision or zone. The usual qualifications include a clean criminal record and compliance with all other local ordinances and licenses.

Cabaret License

If like many establishments you wish to have live musicians perform, you will need what is known as a cabaret license. This verifies that there is a proper and safe area for both performers and their audience. Though relatively easy to obtain compared to other licenses, it does require you to make space for live music performances.

Music License

Pre-recorded music has a license of its own, though this one is not issued by any government authority: instead, you would need to approach one of the three major music clearinghouses — BMI, ASCAP and SESAC — which are responsible for administering all music performances in public venue, both live and pre-recorded. It is advisable to obtain licenses from all three companies just to be safe.

Franchise /Trademark License

Whether you acquired the trademark from a prior owner, or developed one of your own, you will need to license the name, logo, or anything else associated with the restaurant’s brand. If you are operating a franchise, you must register your restaurant as a subsidiary “trading as” (or “T/A”) business entity. Even if you are an independent restaurateur, make sure your trademark is not already taken.

Most of these licenses require dealing with one government authority or another, and completing various paperwork and procedures. Given the time and resources involved, it is better to enlist the help of qualified Miami Business Lawyers who know every facet of the restaurant industry. Jurado & Farshchian has helped numerous restaurateurs get the licenses and regulatory compliance they need to ensure smooth operations and reduce potential risks.