Catering Business Permit Requirements in Wilmington, DE
Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware.
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 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
State of Delaware
2 stopsDelaware — No Sales Tax
Delaware has no state or local sales tax. Instead, Delaware levies a Gross Receipts Tax on the seller of goods or provider of services, based on total receipts. Register with the Delaware Division of Revenue.
Official government sourceFree (gross receipts tax registration)Immediate (online)
Free (gross receipts tax registration)
Immediate (online)
Delaware Division of Public Health — Food Safety Manager Certification
Delaware requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider.
Official government source$80–$1501–2 days
$80–$150
1–2 days
City of Wilmington / New Castle County
2 stopsNew Castle County / Wilmington Catering / Food Service Establishment License
Catering businesses operating out of Wilmington must obtain a Food Service Establishment License from the local health department. This requires a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) and an on-site inspection.
Official government source$200–$500/year2–6 weeks
$200–$500/year
2–6 weeks
City of Wilmington Revenue Division — Business License
Wilmington requires a City Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. Fees are based on business type. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.
Official government source$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues
1–3 weeks
Terminus
Open for business — est. $500–$1,500 · 4–8 weeks
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Official Sources
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