Catering Business Permit Requirements in Louisville, KY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky.

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

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

Louisville / Jefferson County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Jefferson County / Louisville Catering / Food Service Establishment License

Catering businesses operating out of Louisville 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

Louisville Metro Revenue Commission — Business License

Louisville (Louisville Metro / Jefferson County) requires an Occupational License for all businesses. The Revenue Commission processes license applications and collections. 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

Kentucky State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Kentucky Department of Revenue — Sales and Use Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in Kentucky. Kentucky charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local sales taxes (most transactions). Certain services including telecommunications, digital products, and some repair services are also taxable. Register online with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online via Kentucky One Stop Business Portal)
Official government source
2

Kentucky Department of Public Health — Food Safety Certified Manager Requirement

Kentucky requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider 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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