Catering Business Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-13 7 stops $400–$1,100 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 Fort Worth 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 Fort Worth / Tarrant County

3 stops

  1. City of Fort Worth — Food Establishment Permit (Catering)

    Caterers operating from a fixed commercial kitchen in Fort Worth must obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the City of Fort Worth Code Compliance Department, Environmental Quality Division. A pre-opening inspection is required before the permit is issued. Caterers who prepare and serve food at off-site events must ensure their commissary kitchen is also permitted. Contact Fort Worth Code Compliance at 817-392-1234.

    Official government source

    $200–$500 annually (based on establishment type and square footage)2–6 weeks (application, plan review, and pre-opening inspection)

  2. Tarrant County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

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

    Official government source

    $23 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day to 1 week

  3. City of Fort Worth Fire Marshal Inspection

    Commercial kitchens and catering facilities in Fort Worth must pass a fire safety inspection by the Fort Worth Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau before the Environmental Health permit is issued. Inspectors verify suppression systems, fire extinguishers, and compliance with the International Fire Code for food service operations.

    Official government source

    $75–$150 (inspection fee)1–3 weeks to schedule and complete

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,100 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspection, and complete certifications

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Official Sources

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