Catering Business Permit Requirements in Burlington, VT

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $500–$1,500 est. 4–8 weeks
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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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Vermont

2 stops

  1. Vermont Department of Taxes — Sales Tax Registration

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Vermont. Vermont charges a 6% state sales tax; meals and lodging are taxed at 9%. Register with the Vermont Department of Taxes online.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via myVTax)

  2. Vermont Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

    Vermont requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider.

    Official government source

    $80–$1501–2 days

City of Burlington / Chittenden County

2 stops

  1. Chittenden County / Burlington Catering / Food Service Establishment License

    Catering businesses operating out of Burlington must obtain a Food Service Establishment License from the local health department. This requires a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) and an on-site inspection.

    Official government source

    $200–$500/year2–6 weeks

  2. City of Burlington City Clerk — Business License

    Burlington requires a Business License for regulated businesses within city limits. The City Clerk processes applications for food service, personal care, and other regulated industries. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,500 · 4–8 weeks

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Official Sources

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