What licenses and permits are required to open a restaurant in Louisiana?

Opening a restaurant in Louisiana requires several licenses and permits. These include the Retail Food Permit, Food Safety Certification, Occupational License, Alcoholic Beverage Outlet (ABO) license, and compliance with the Healthy Kids Meal Beverage Ordinance. Each of these licenses and permits serves a specific purpose and has its own application process, costs, and requirements.

1. Retail Food Permit

• Purpose: This permit is required by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals’ Office of Public Health for any business that involves the sale of retail or prepared foods or drinks. It ensures that the establishment complies with the Louisiana Administrative Code: Title 51 Part XXIII.
• Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the type of establishment and its gross annual food sales. The Retail Food Permit Fee Schedule provides detailed information.
• How to Register: You need to provide certain documents to the State Sanitarians in the parish where you plan to operate. These documents include the Plans Review Questionnaire, Plans Review Documents for Building & Premise, and Pre-Opening Checklist. You can pay your permit online.

2. Food Safety Certification

• Purpose: This certification ensures that the establishment complies with food safety standards and regulations.
• How to Register: Apply for the certification and familiarize yourself with the Food Safety Certification FAQs.

3. Occupational License

• Purpose: This license is required for the operation of a business in New Orleans. It ensures that the business complies with local regulations and standards.
• Estimated Cost: A $50 fee is required for a temporary occupational license.
• How to Register: Apply for the license online at the One Stop App. You will need to provide a state-issued ID, a detailed business description, and, if applicable, incorporation documents from the Louisiana Secretary of State website.

4. Alcoholic Beverage Outlet (ABO) License

• Purpose: This license is required if you plan to sell alcoholic beverages of any kind. It ensures that the establishment complies with local and state regulations regarding the sale of alcohol.
• Estimated Cost: Fees vary depending on the type of alcohol being sold, with a processing fee due upon application submission and the remaining balance due upon approval.
• How to Register: The application process involves contacting several departments including the  Louisiana State Health Department, Louisiana Department of Revenue and Taxation, and Louisiana State Department of Alcohol Tobacco Control.

5. Compliance with the Healthy Kids Meal Beverage Ordinance

• Purpose: This ordinance mandates that the default beverage sold with children’s meals must be either unflavored, unsweetened, uncarbonated water, plain pasteurized cow’s milk with no added caloric sweeteners, low-calorie sweeteners, or flavorings, nonfat or one percent milk, or non-dairy milk alternatives containing no more than 130 calories per container and/or serving, or 100% fruit juice of 6.75 oz or less.
• How to Register: You need to send the proposed children's menu to your local Health Department or complete an attestation form and upload it with your One Stop application to indicate that you will not provide a children's menu.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:

• Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health
• New Orleans Occupational License Guide
• New Orleans Alcoholic Beverage License
• New Orleans Health Department

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