The Five Most Important Licenses and Permits for Starting a Restaurant

With its vibrant economy and cosmopolitan culinary scene, South Florida is an excellent place to launch a restaurant. However, no matter what kind of establishment you have in mind, you will need to obtain several key licenses and permits from various government authorities before Starting a Restaurant. Jurado & Farshchian can help you comply with the following crucial requirements for your new business.

Business License

Let us start with the most important license: the one that recognizes your right to open and operate a business in the first place. Every business must be recognized by local, state, and federal governments, beginning with the filing of your founding documents — such as articles of organization for an LLC or articles of incorporation for a corporation — with the Florida Department of State. Once approved, your restaurant must be licensed by a municipal or county government depending on the location. Each jurisdiction has its own procedures, permits, and fees, and our firm is equipped to assist you with all of them.

Occupancy License

Sometimes called a business license, this vital certification is issued by local fire and safety agencies to confirm that your location is safe for the public. Needless to say, you will need to obtain this license to avoid both a hefty penalty and a calamitous image as an unsafe place to patronize. To qualify, you will need to have working and easily identifiable fire extinguishers, fire escapes, and emergency exits. Additionally, some city governments will also require your establishment to have safety measures in the event of a flood or wind storm.

Food Safety and Handling License

This license is a given for any restaurant worth its salt: you will not get very far if you cannot assure patrons that their food is properly and hygienically prepared. That is why you and any managers must complete a mandatory training exercise in food handling and sanitation with the local restaurant or food safety authority. Typically, the license will require both a course certification and an onsite inspection, though additional requirements will vary from city to city. Bear in mind that at least one license holder must be onsite at all times during operating hours.

Liquor License

Since alcohol often makes up a significant source of revenue for restaurants, you may want to consider getting a liquor license. This is often one of the most difficult to obtain, as it can require fingerprinting, fees, and lots of paperwork. Moreover, some cities and countries place restrictions on how many establishments in a certain zone can sell alcohol. As with most licenses, the exact requirements vary significantly by the municipality, so we can assist you in determining what will be needed for your location and how best to obtain this license.

Trademark / Franchise License

An identifiable brand is the key to the growth and success of many restaurants. That is why you must move quickly to secure your business’ name, logo, slogan, or another distinguishing characteristic from potential imitators. This is the case whether you acquired the trademark from a previous owner or developed one on your own.