Catering Business Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $400–$1,200 est. 3–8 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspection, 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. Also required to open a business bank account.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all catering businesses in Texas. Catering services (prepared food served at customer's location) are taxable. The combined tax rate in Dallas is 8.25%. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller eSystems portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. Certified Food Manager Certification

    Texas law requires at least one Certified Food Manager (CFM) on-site whenever a food establishment is in operation. The CFM must pass an ANSI-CFP accredited exam such as ServSafe, Prometric, or National Registry. Texas DSHS recognizes all ANSI-CFP accredited certifications.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 (course + exam)1–2 days; certification issued same day

  3. Texas Food Handler Card

    All food employees who handle unpackaged food, food-contact surfaces, or food-contact equipment must complete an accredited food handler training program within 60 days of hire. Cards valid 2 years. Online providers offer courses for as little as $7.

    Official government source

    $7–$15 per employee2–4 hours online; card issued upon completion

City of Dallas / Dallas County

2 stops

  1. City of Dallas — Food Establishment Permit (Catering)

    Caterers operating from a fixed commercial kitchen in Dallas must obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the Dallas Environmental Health Division. A pre-opening inspection is required. Caterers who operate without a fixed location must use a permitted commissary kitchen and may need a mobile food vendor permit. Contact Dallas Environmental Health at 214-670-8083.

    Official government source

    $200–$700 annually (based on seating/establishment type); $200 pre-opening inspection fee2–6 weeks (application, plan review, and pre-opening inspection)

  2. Dallas County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a business name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Dallas County Clerk. Valid up to 10 years.

    Official government source

    $22 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day to 1 week

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,200 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspection, and complete certifications

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Official Sources

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