Catering Business Permit Requirements in Fargo, ND

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Fargo, Cass County, North Dakota.

Verified 2026-09-07 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. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .

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 North Dakota

2 stops

  1. North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — Sales and Use Tax Permit

    Required for any business selling taxable goods or services in North Dakota. The state sales tax rate is 5% for most retail sales, and cities and counties may levy additional local sales and use taxes that vary by location — check the Tax Commissioner’s local tax rate listings for your address. Apply for the permit in ND TAP, the state’s Taxpayer Access Point.

    Official government source

    FreeApply through ND TAP at least 30 days before you open for business, as the Tax Commissioner advises.

  2. Certified Food Protection Manager (recommended, not required)

    A Certified Food Protection Manager is not required by the North Dakota Food Code. ND Health and Human Services states: "A CFPM is not a requirement of the North Dakota Food Code but may be required in some areas of the state," and recommends that each establishment have at least one supervisor or manager certified. If you pursue it, use an ANSI-accredited program and check with your city or county public health agency for any local requirement.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 for an ANSI-accredited course and exam, if you choose to certify1–2 days

City of Fargo / Cass County

2 stops

  1. Fargo Cass Public Health — Food Service Establishment License

    Catering businesses operating out of Fargo must submit a Food Establishment Plan Review Application to Fargo Cass Public Health and pass an on-site inspection before operating. Fees are not published online; confirm current fees and commissary/kitchen requirements with Fargo Cass Public Health.

    Official government source

    Fee not published; confirm with Fargo Cass Public Health (701.476.6729)2–6 weeks

  2. City of Fargo Occupational License (only for listed trades)

    Fargo does not require a general business license. The city states: "The City does not require business licenses for every type of commerce; however, the Fargo Municipal Code does require a City license for the businesses listed below." The licensed categories are specific trades and regulated businesses — excavator, sidewalk builder, house mover, re-roofing, sign hanger, master plumber, master and journeyman heating contractor, commercial hauler, pawn broker, second hand dealer, transportation vehicles, alcohol sellers, mobile home communities and forestry. Check the Auditor's Office list before assuming a license applies to you.

    Official government source

    No general business license fee. Listed categories have set annual fees — for example excavator $250/year (with a $100,000 bond), master plumber $125/year, master heating contractor $125/year, sign hanger $125/year, forestry $50/year.1–3 weeks, and only if your business type is on the city's licensed list

Terminus

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

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