Catering Business Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in New York City, New York (Manhattan) County, New York.

Updated 2026-03-13 5 stops $600–$1,500 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspections, and complete certifications
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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/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of New York

2 stops

  1. New York Food Protection Certificate

    New York State requires that each food service establishment have at least one certified supervisor (Food Protection Certificate holder) present during all hours of operation. Obtain by passing the NYC DOHMH Food Protection Course (in-person or online) and examination. Certificate valid for 5 years.

    Official government source

    $114 (NYC DOHMH exam fee) or $25–$50 (third-party online course + exam)1–2 days for course; exam scheduled separately

  2. New York Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

    Catering services in New York are generally taxable. The combined sales tax rate in New York City is 8.875% (4% state + 4.5% city + 0.375% MTA). Register free with the NY Dept of Taxation and Finance for a Certificate of Authority (vendor's permit) before making any taxable sales.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online registration)

City of New York City / New York (Manhattan) County

2 stops

  1. NYC Dept of Health — Catering Food Service Establishment Permit

    Caterers operating in New York City must obtain a Food Service Establishment permit from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). All food must be prepared in a permitted food service establishment. Off-site catering at venues must comply with NYC Health Code Article 81. A pre-permit inspection is required. Contact NYC DOHMH at 212-676-2414.

    Official government source

    $280–$400 annually (based on seating capacity); $280 for 0–15 seats3–8 weeks (application, pre-permit inspection)

  2. NYC Dept of Consumer and Worker Protection — Business License

    Catering businesses operating in NYC must register with the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). If operating as a home-based catering business, a Home Occupation permit from the NYC Dept of Buildings may be needed. DBA filing required through Albany if operating under a trade name.

    Official government source

    $50–$2001–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $600–$1,500 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspections, and complete certifications

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Official Sources

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