Catering Business Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in San Diego, San Diego County, California.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $700–$1,500 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

2 stops

  1. California Food Handler Card (AB 1978)

    All food handlers must obtain a California Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire. Valid 3 years. Online courses available for $7–$15.

    Official government source

    $7–$15 per employee2–3 hours online

  2. Certified Food Protection Manager

    At least one Certified Food Protection Manager required per food facility. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam. Certificate must be posted at the facility.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 (course + exam)1–2 days

City of San Diego / San Diego County

3 stops

  1. San Diego County DEH — Food Facility Permit (Caterer)

    Caterers operating in San Diego County must obtain a Food Facility Permit from the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ), Food and Housing Division. A pre-opening inspection is required. Caterers must operate from a permitted commissary or fixed food facility. The County DEHQ handles permitting for most of San Diego city as well as unincorporated areas. Contact SD DEHQ at 858-505-6900.

    Official government source

    $500–$1,000 annually (based on facility type and risk category); plan check fee may apply for new facilities3–8 weeks (application, plan review, and inspection)

  2. City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate

    All businesses operating in San Diego must obtain a Business Tax Certificate from the City of San Diego Office of the City Treasurer. For caterers, this is a registration and tax requirement.

    Official government source

    $34–$200 annually1–2 weeks

  3. California Seller's Permit (CDTFA)

    Required for collecting California sales tax. Catering services with prepared food service are generally taxable. The combined rate in San Diego is 7.75% (state + county). Register free with CDTFA.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$1,500 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

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Official Sources

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