Catering Business Permit Requirements in Billings, MT

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Billings, Yellowstone County, Montana.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $500–$1,500 est. 4–8 weeks
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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 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Montana

2 stops

  1. Montana — No Sales Tax

    Montana has no state or local sales tax. Businesses do not need a sales tax permit. However, businesses must register with the Montana Department of Revenue for applicable business taxes (e.g., withholding, corporate income tax if applicable).

    Official government source

    Free (business registration)Immediate (online via TransAction Portal)

  2. Montana Department of Public Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

    Montana requires at least one certified food safety manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider such as ServSafe.

    Official government source

    $80–$1501–2 days

City of Billings / Yellowstone County

2 stops

  1. Yellowstone County / Billings Catering / Food Service Establishment License

    Catering businesses operating out of Billings 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

  2. City of Billings City Clerk — Business License

    Billings requires a Business License for regulated businesses operating within city limits. The City Clerk's office processes applications. 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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,500 · 4–8 weeks

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Official Sources

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