Planning to open a restaurant in Houston, 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. Texas Online Tax Registration Permit
Purpose: Required for businesses engaged in sales or leasing of tangible personal property or taxable services in Texas.
Application Instructions: Apply online through eSystems at comptroller.texas.gov.
2. Food Permit
Purpose: Required for building, remodeling, or taking over an existing food establishment.
Cost: Determined after the final pre-opening inspection.
Application Instructions: Issued by the Houston Health Department Consumer Health Services Bureau.
3. Retail Food Establishment Permit
Purpose: Necessary before operating a restaurant, available in three types: Fixed Establishment, Mobile Food Unit, and Temporary Establishment.
Cost: Ranges from $250 to $750, based on gross annual food sales.
Application Instructions: Apply online at the Texas Department of State Health Services.
4. Food Manager Certification
Purpose: Obtained by passing a department-approved or ANSI-certified food manager examination.
Cost: Varies depending on the examination provider.
Application Instructions: Apply online at the Texas Department of State Health Services.
5. Food Handler Certification
Purpose: Required for all food employees, obtained through an accredited course.
Cost: Varies depending on the course provider.
Application Instructions: Apply online at the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Resources
For more detailed information, please refer to the following sources:
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