Catering Business Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 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. 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. Prepared food and beverages served at customer events are taxable in Texas. The combined tax rate in San Antonio is 8.25%. Free online registration through the Texas Comptroller eSystems portal.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. Certified Food Manager Certification

    At least one Certified Food Manager must be on-site when the establishment is in operation. Must pass an ANSI-CFP accredited exam (ServSafe, Prometric, etc.).

    Official government source

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

  3. Texas Food Handler Card

    All food employees must complete an accredited food handler training program within 60 days of hire. Cards valid 2 years. Online courses available for as little as $7.

    Official government source

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

City of San Antonio / Bexar County

2 stops

  1. San Antonio Metropolitan Health District — Food Establishment Permit

    Caterers operating in San Antonio must obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (SAMHD) Environmental Health Division. A pre-opening inspection is required before the permit is issued. Caterers without a fixed kitchen must use an approved commissary that holds a valid permit. Contact SAMHD Environmental Health at 210-207-8853.

    Official government source

    $175–$600 annually (varies by type and seating capacity); $125 pre-opening inspection fee2–6 weeks (application review, plan review if new construction, and inspection)

  2. Bexar County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating under a trade name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Bexar County Clerk in person or by mail. Valid up to 10 years.

    Official government source

    $22Same day to 1 week

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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