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

Opening a restaurant in Nevada requires several licenses and permits. These include a Food Service Establishment permit, a State Business License, and other local permits depending on the nature of your business. The process involves submitting applications, paying fees, and undergoing inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

1. Food Service Establishment Permit

• Purpose: This permit is required for establishments where food is provided for individual portion service directly to the consumer, including restaurants. It ensures that the establishment complies with the provisions of NAC 446.
• Estimated Cost: The permit fees for a restaurant are $200 for the first 40 seats, plus $1.50 for each additional seat. If the restaurant is new, there is an additional plan review fee of $498 plus an amount equal to the fee for an annual permit. If the restaurant is being remodeled, the plan review fee is $332 plus an amount equal to one-half the fee for an annual permit after remodel.
• How to Register: To apply for this permit, you need to submit an application and any other requested documents to your local health authority. Upon receipt of the application, and completion of a plan review, if required, the health authority will inspect your food establishment to determine compliance.

2. State Business License

• Purpose: This license is required for all businesses operating in Nevada, including restaurants. It ensures that the business is legally registered and compliant with state laws.
• Estimated Cost: The annual renewal fee for this license is $500 for corporations and $200 for all other business entity types.
• How to Register: You can apply for a State Business License using the online form or the paper form provided on the Nevada Secretary of State's website. If your restaurant is organized as a Title 7 entity, you will be required to file for the State Business License at the time your list of officers is due. If your restaurant is not a Title 7 entity, you must file a new application or renew your existing State Business License with the Secretary of State's office.

3. Local Business License

• Purpose: This license is required for businesses operating within a specific city or county. It ensures that your business is compliant with local laws and regulations.
• How to Register: You must obtain a local business license within the city/county in which your restaurant will operate. Some cities may charge additional fees depending on your business type.

4. Special Permits

• Purpose: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need additional permits from Health, Police, Fire, or Building Departments.
• How to Register: Check with the relevant departments to determine if these permits apply to your business.

5. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

• Purpose: This number is required for partnerships, corporations, and LLCs, as well as sole proprietors who pay wages to one or more employees or are required to file any excise tax returns.
• How to Register: You can apply for an EIN online at www.irs.gov/smallbiz.

For more information, visit the following links:

• Nevada Revised Statutes – NRS
• Nevada Administrative Code – NAC
• Nevada Secretary of State's website
• Nevada Small Business Development Center

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