Catering Business Permit Requirements in Greenville, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina.

Updated 2026-03-14 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 South Carolina

2 stops

  1. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

    Official government source

    $50 one-timeImmediate (online via MyDORWAY)

  2. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control — Food Protection Manager Certification

    SC DHEC requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam.

    Official government source

    $80–$1501–2 days

City of Greenville / Greenville County

2 stops

  1. Greenville County / Greenville Catering / Food Service Establishment License

    Catering businesses operating out of Greenville 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 Greenville Business License Division — Business License

    Greenville requires an annual Business License issued by the City's Revenue Division for all businesses operating within city limits. 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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