Catering Business Permit Requirements in El Paso, TX
Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in El Paso, El Paso County, Texas.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
El Paso / El Paso County Requirements
3 requirementsCity of El Paso — Food Establishment Permit (Catering/Mobile Food)
Caterers operating in El Paso must obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the City of El Paso Environmental Health Department. If operating from a fixed commercial kitchen, a Fixed Food Establishment Permit is required. Caterers preparing food off-site or using a commissary must ensure that commissary is also permitted. A pre-opening inspection is required before the permit is issued. Contact El Paso Environmental Health at 915-212-6675.
El Paso County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)
Required if operating your catering business under any name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the El Paso County Clerk. Valid up to 10 years.
City of El Paso Fire Marshal Inspection
Commercial kitchens and catering facilities in El Paso require a fire safety inspection by the El Paso Fire Marshal's Office before the Environmental Health permit is issued. Inspectors verify proper suppression systems, fire extinguishers, and compliance with fire code requirements for food service operations.
Texas State Requirements
3 requirementsTexas Sales Tax Permit
Required for all catering businesses in Texas. Catering services (prepared food served at a customer's location) are taxable. The combined tax rate in El Paso is 8.25% (6.25% state + 2% local). Apply for free through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.
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.
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 are valid for 2 years. Numerous DSHS-accredited online providers offer the course for as little as $7.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Also required to open a business bank account. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
Related Guides
Other business types in El Paso, TX
Catering Business in other cities
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Aberdeen, SD
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Albuquerque, NM
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Anchorage, AK
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Annapolis, MD
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Austin, TX