Catering Business Permit Requirements in Tucson, AZ

1. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

   Issued by the IRS at no cost. Required if you have employees (catering crews, servers, cooks), operate as an LLC or corporation, or open a business bank account. Apply online for immediate issuance.

   Official government source

   Free·Same day (online)

   Free

   Same day (online)

1. Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License

   Issued by the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR). Catering services — including food, labor, and equipment — may be subject to TPT. The taxability depends on the nature of the catering contract. Register through AZTaxes.gov and consult ADOR for catering-specific tax classification guidance.

   Official government source

   $12 one-time registration·1–2 weeks

   $12 one-time registration

   1–2 weeks

2. Arizona Food Handler Card / Manager Certification

   Required by the Arizona Department of Health Services. All food handlers must have a valid food handler card from an ADHS-approved provider. At least one certified food manager (ServSafe or equivalent) must be present at all catering events.

   Official government source

   $10–$100 per person/certification·1 day to 1 week

   $10–$100 per person/certification

   1 day to 1 week

3. Arizona Corporation Commission Business Registration

   Register your LLC or corporation with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Catering businesses face significant liability at events — LLC formation is strongly recommended before taking on clients.

   Official government source

   $50–$85 filing fee·1–2 weeks

   $50–$85 filing fee

   1–2 weeks

1. Pima County Health Department Food Establishment Permit

   Issued by the Pima County Health Department. Required for catering operations based in Pima County. Covers the commissary or commercial kitchen where food is prepared. Caterers must provide a commissary agreement if using a shared-use kitchen. Annual inspections verify temperature control, sanitation, and equipment compliance.

   Official government source

   $200–$350/year·2–4 weeks

   $200–$350/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Pima County Mobile Food Vehicle Permit (if using catering vehicle)

   Required by the Pima County Health Department if food is transported and served from a vehicle at event locations. The vehicle must have temperature-maintaining equipment, handwashing facilities, and proper food storage. Separate from the base kitchen permit.

   Official government source

   $150–$250/year·2–3 weeks

   $150–$250/year

   2–3 weeks

3. City of Tucson Business License

   Required for all businesses operating within Tucson city limits. Obtained through the City of Tucson Finance Department. Renewed annually.

   Official government source

   $45–$75/year·1 week

   $45–$75/year

   1 week

Official Sources

• pima.gov
• tucsonaz.gov
• azdor.gov
• azdhs.gov

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