Catering Business Permit Requirements in Miami, FL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Miami, Miami-Dade County, Florida.

$600 -- $1500 4–10 weeks to obtain all local and state licenses, pass inspection, and complete certifications 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 13, 2026.

Miami / Miami-Dade County Requirements

2 requirements

Miami-Dade DERM — Public Food Service Establishment License

Caterers operating in Miami-Dade County must obtain a Public Food Service Establishment license from Miami-Dade County's Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) Environmental Resources Management Division. A pre-opening inspection is required. Caterers must operate from or use a licensed commissary kitchen. Contact Miami-Dade RER at 305-372-6700.

$280–$700 annually (based on seating capacity and establishment type)2–6 weeks (application, plan review, and inspection)

Official government source

Miami-Dade Local Business Tax Receipt

Required for all businesses operating in unincorporated Miami-Dade County. Obtain from the Miami-Dade Tax Collector. If operating within Miami city limits, obtain a City of Miami Business Tax Receipt from the City of Miami Planning and Zoning Department.

$50–$250 annually1–2 weeks

Official government source

Florida State Requirements

3 requirements

Florida DBPR — Division of Hotels and Restaurants Catering License

All Florida catering businesses must also be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Hotels and Restaurants. The DBPR Catering license (type CATERER) is required for caterers who prepare and serve food at off-site locations. Apply through the DBPR online licensing portal. Annual renewal required.

$125–$300 annually2–4 weeks

Official government source

Certified Food Manager — Florida Food Handler Certificate

Florida requires at least one Certified Food Manager on-site at all times during food service operations. The manager must pass an approved food manager certification exam. Florida also requires all food handlers to complete an accredited food safety training. DBPR accepts all ANSI-CFP accredited certifications.

$80–$150 (exam + course)1–2 days

Official government source

Florida Sales Tax

Catering services in Florida are subject to state sales tax (6%) plus the Miami-Dade County surtax (1%), for a total of 7%. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue for a Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration.

FreeImmediate (online application)

Official government source