Catering Business Permit Requirements in Baton Rouge, LA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge County, Louisiana.

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

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

Baton Rouge / East Baton Rouge County Requirements

2 requirements
1

East Baton Rouge County / Baton Rouge Catering / Food Service Establishment License

Catering businesses operating out of Baton Rouge 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 of Baton Rouge / Parish of East Baton Rouge Department of Finance — Business License

Baton Rouge requires an Occupational License from the Parish for all businesses. Certain regulated businesses require additional permits from the Department of Development. 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

Louisiana State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Louisiana Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Registration

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Louisiana. Louisiana's state sales tax rate is 4.45%. Louisiana has a complex tax structure with local parish sales taxes that can bring the total rate to 8–12%. Register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue and separately with each applicable parish.

Free1–5 business days (online)
Official government source
2

Louisiana Department of Health — Certified Food Protection Manager Requirement

Louisiana requires at least one certified food protection 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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