Catering Business Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

Updated 2026-03-13 7 stops $400–$1,000 est. 3-6 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/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of Tennessee

4 stops

  1. Tennessee Department of Agriculture Catering License

    Caterers that transport and serve food at off-site locations may require a Tennessee Department of Agriculture catering license in addition to the local Metro Health permit. This applies particularly to caterers serving events outside Davidson County or operating across multiple jurisdictions.

    Official government source

    $100-$200/year2-4 weeks

  2. Tennessee Sales Tax Certificate

    Required for catering businesses in Tennessee. Catering services including food and beverages served at events are generally subject to Tennessee sales tax. Issued by the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online registration)

  3. Food Handler Certification (for employees)

    All food service employees in Tennessee must complete a state-approved food handler training program. At least one manager per catering operation must hold a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification.

    Official government source

    $15-$150 per employee depending on certification level1-5 days

  4. Tennessee Secretary of State Business Registration

    Required if operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership in Tennessee. Establishes your legal entity and protects your business name in the state.

    Official government source

    $50-$300 depending on entity type1-2 weeks (online filing)

City of Nashville / Davidson County

2 stops

  1. Metro Nashville Catering Food Establishment Permit

    Required for all catering operations in Nashville-Davidson County. Issued by the Metro Public Health Department of Nashville and Davidson County. Caterers must operate from an approved commercial kitchen and pass an inspection prior to permit issuance. A separate permit is required for each operating location.

    Official government source

    $200-$300/year2-4 weeks after application and inspection

  2. Metro Nashville Business Tax License

    Required for all businesses operating within Metro Nashville-Davidson County. Issued by the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Catering businesses must obtain this license in addition to their food establishment permit.

    Official government source

    $15-$100/year based on gross revenue1-2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,000 · 3-6 weeks

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Official Sources

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