Planning to open a restaurant in the city of Austin, TX? This guide simplifies the process by detailing the required licenses and permits, and explaining the registration steps involved, making it easier for restaurant owners to get started.
1. Food Enterprise Permit
Purpose: Required to operate any food enterprise in Austin.
Cost: Varies based on risk category and establishment size, ranging from $359 (low-risk, small size) to $896 (high-risk, large size).
How to Register: Apply at the Planning & Development Review Department's "One Stop Shop" or the Austin-Travis County Health and Human Services Department (ATCHHSD) website. Learn more at the Austin, TX government website.
2. Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
Purpose: Issued after building and health officials inspect and approve the building, verifying no violations of Building or Health Codes.
Application Instructions: Apply online at the Austin, TX government website.
3. Food Manager Certification
Purpose: Ensures that food service establishments have a manager certified in food safety.
Cost: varies depending on the provider of the examination.
How to Register: You can obtain one by passing a DSHS or ANSI-CFP approved examination. Learn more at the Texas Health and Human Services website.
4. Additional Permits
Mobile Vendor Application Fee, Fire Inspection Fee, Food Enterprise Plan Review Fee: These are specific to certain business operations or circumstances.
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