Licensing
18 min read
All Required Permits & Licenses by State/Country
Use this organized view to identify your likely permit stack. Always verify locally—requirements vary by county/city and change frequently.
United States (sample states)
CaliforniaTypical Stack
- Business License
- Seller’s Permit
- Cottage/Food Facility Permit
- Health Dept. Permit
- Fire Marshal Sign-off
TexasTypical Stack
- Sales Tax Permit
- Food Establishment Permit
- Mobile Food Unit Permit
- Commissary Agreement
- Fire Inspection
New YorkTypical Stack
- Certificate of Authority
- Food Service Establishment Permit
- Mobile Food Vending Permit
- DOHMH Inspection
- FDNY Sign-off
International Regions (high-level)
Canada
- Provincial food handler certification
- Municipal business license
- Health inspection
- Fire safety compliance
UK
- Register with local authority (28 days prior)
- Food hygiene rating
- Public liability insurance
- Allergen labelling
EU
- Local municipality registration
- HACCP plan
- Allergen & traceability
- VAT registration where applicable
Compliance Checklist
- Confirm whether a commissary kitchen is mandatory
- Identify all agencies (city, county, state) involved
- Book fire suppression inspection if required
- Ensure food handler/manager certifications are current
- Document SOPs for temperature control and sanitation
Need help navigating permits?
Use our licensing checklist and get in touch if you need a compliance review.
Case Examples
Scenario A (California mobile unit):
Typical lead time 6–10 weeks. Two inspections (fire, health). Commissary agreement required.
Scenario B (Texas city vendor):
Sales tax permit first; health permit and MFU tag next; book fire inspection through city scheduling.
Scenario C (NYC street vendor):
DOHMH permit queue; cart/truck inspection; FDNY sign‑off; expect 8–12 weeks.
Scenario D (UK local council):
Register 28 days prior; EHO inspection; allergen labelling; public liability insurance.
FAQs
Do I always need a commissary kitchen?
Many jurisdictions require mobile food operations to anchor to a licensed commissary for water, waste, and storage. Check your local health department rules.
How long does permitting take?
Anywhere from 2–12 weeks depending on inspections and agency workload. Book fire suppression and health inspections early to avoid delays.
Are event permits different from operational permits?
Yes. Many cities require temporary event permits in addition to your core food service permits. Always confirm with the event organizer and city hall.