Catering Business Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Honolulu, Honolulu County, Hawaii.

$500 -- $1500 4–8 weeks 5 requirements

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

Honolulu / Honolulu County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Honolulu County / Honolulu Catering / Food Service Establishment License

Catering businesses operating out of Honolulu must obtain a Food Service Establishment License from the local health department. This requires a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) and an on-site inspection.

$200–$500/year2–6 weeks
Official government source
2

City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source

Hawaii State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

$20 (one-time registration fee)2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
Official government source
2

Hawaii Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Hawaii requires at least one certified food safety manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam such as ServSafe.

$80–$1501–2 days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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