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.

Updated 2026-03-13 7 stops $350–$1,000 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. Also required to open a business bank account. Free from the IRS.

    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 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.

    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 are valid for 2 years. Numerous DSHS-accredited online providers offer the course for as little as $7.

    Official government source

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

City of El Paso / El Paso County

3 stops

  1. City 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.

    Official government source

    $200–$350 annually (based on facility type and inspection classification)2–6 weeks (application, plan review, and pre-opening inspection)

  2. 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.

    Official government source

    $24 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day to 1 week

  3. 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.

    Official government source

    $50–$150 (inspection fee)1–3 weeks to schedule and complete

Terminus

Open for business — est. $350–$1,000 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspection, and complete certifications

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Official Sources

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