To open a restaurant in New Jersey, you need to obtain several licenses and permits, which include approval from your local health department, food safety maintenance, liquor licensing (if applicable), business registration with the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services (DORES), a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), and Mercantile or other local business licenses as applicable. The requirements may vary depending on the specific location of your restaurant, such as Newark, which has additional requirements.
1. Local Health Department Approval
- Purpose: This approval is needed to ensure the floor plan of your business meets health and safety standards. The health department will conduct initial and regular follow-up inspections.
- How to Register: You can find the local health departments listed in this directory on the New Jersey Government website.
2. Food Safety Maintenance
- Purpose: The New Jersey Department of Health oversees food safety. It is also recommended that food managers receive Manager Food Safety Training & Certification.
- How to Register: The Department of Health offers a checklist to help businesses maintain food safety. The Manager Food Safety Training & Certification can be obtained from ServSafe.
3. Liquor License (if applicable)
- Purpose: If you plan to serve alcohol, you will need to obtain a liquor license.
- How to Register: Contact your Municipal Clerk or to purchase a license from an existing license holder. More information can be found on the New Jersey Government website.
4. Business Registration with DORES
- Purpose: This is required if you choose to form a limited liability company (LLC), a corporation (Inc.), or a Professional Corporation (PC). This is not required for Sole Proprietorships or General Partnerships.
- How to Register: You can register on the New Jersey Government website.
5. Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Purpose: Every business that has employees, more than a single owner, or is organized as a corporation must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- How to Register: You can register on the IRS’s website.
6. Mercantile or Other Local Business Licenses
- Purpose: Many towns require certain businesses to obtain Mercantile or other local business licenses.
- How to Register: Check with your Municipal Clerk’s Office to determine your obligation under municipal ordinances.
For restaurants in Newark, additional permits and certificates are required, including a business license specifically for a restaurant, Certificate of Occupancy, Business Registration Certificate, Zoning Approval, Fire Certificate, Police Warrant Record Check and SBI, Proof of Payroll, Trade Waste Permit, and Health Certificate.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:
- New Jersey Business Starter Kits
- New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services
- New Jersey Business Action Center
- Newark Business License
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