Catering Business Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Virginia VDACS Food Registration

   If your catering business produces or sells packaged food products (pre-packaged items, bottled sauces, etc.) in addition to catering services, the Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS) may require food product registration. VDACS reviews food labels and production practices for packaged items.

   Official government source

   $50–$150/year·2–4 weeks

   $50–$150/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Food Handler Certification

   Virginia requires that catering establishments ensure food handlers are properly trained. At least one person in the catering operation must hold a food safety manager certification from an accredited program (e.g., ServSafe). Virginia Department of Health guidelines apply.

   Official government source

   $100–$200 (exam and certification)·1–4 weeks

   $100–$200 (exam and certification)

   1–4 weeks

3. Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) Business Registration

   All formal business entities operating in Virginia must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. An LLC is strongly recommended for catering businesses due to liability exposure at events. Filing costs approximately $100.

   Official government source

   $100 (LLC filing fee)·1–2 weeks

   $100 (LLC filing fee)

   1–2 weeks

4. Virginia Department of Taxation Sales Tax Registration

   Catering services in Virginia are generally subject to sales tax. Caterers must register with the Virginia Department of Taxation for a sales tax certificate and collect and remit applicable state and local taxes on taxable services and food sales.

   Official government source

   Free·1 week

   Free

   1 week

1. Virginia Beach Health Department Catering Permit

   The Virginia Beach Health Department, operating under the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), issues catering establishment permits to businesses that prepare food off-site and transport it to events in Virginia Beach. A licensed commissary kitchen is required — home kitchens do not qualify. Annual renewal and inspections are required.

   Official government source

   $100–$200/year·2–4 weeks

   $100–$200/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Virginia Beach BPOL License (Business, Professional, Occupational License)

   Virginia Beach requires all businesses to obtain a BPOL license from the Commissioner of Revenue. This is Virginia Beach's primary local business authorization, based on the BPOL system unique to Virginia's independent cities. Catering companies are classified under the service/contractor business category, and fees are based on gross receipts. Must be renewed annually by March 1.

   Official government source

   $50–$200/year (based on gross receipts)·1–2 weeks

   $50–$200/year (based on gross receipts)

   1–2 weeks

3. Commissary Kitchen Arrangement

   Virginia Beach Health Department requires caterers to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and equipment sanitation. A signed commissary agreement must be submitted with your catering permit application. Commissary kitchen rental typically costs $15–$30/hour.

   Official government source

   $200–$600/month (commissary rental)·Arranged before licensing

   $200–$600/month (commissary rental)

   Arranged before licensing

Official Sources

• Virginia Department of Health — Virginia Beach Local Health District
• Virginia VDACS — Food Safety
• Virginia Beach Commissioner of Revenue — Business License (BPOL)
• Virginia Department of Taxation — Sales Tax

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