Opening a restaurant in Washington requires obtaining several licenses and permits. These include a State business license, a City of Seattle business license, and a variety of other permits depending on the specific offerings and operations of your restaurant. The permits range from health permits for food establishments to construction and trade permits for any alterations to your building or space. It's important to note that the costs, processing times, and requirements for these licenses and permits can vary.
1. State Business License
- Purpose: This license is required to legally operate a business in Washington.
- Estimated Cost: The state business license costs $19.
- How to Register: You can apply for this license through the Washington Secretary of State's office. The processing time is 2-14 business days.
2. City of Seattle Business License
- Purpose: This license is required to legally operate a business in the City of Seattle.
- Estimated Cost: The Seattle business license costs $110.
- How to Register: You can apply for this license through the City of Seattle's website. The license can be obtained same-day.
3. Food Service Plan Approval
- Purpose: This approval is required before construction permits will be issued.
- Estimated Cost: The cost for this approval ranges between $444-$888.
- How to Register: Get this approval from the State Health Department.
4. Annual Food Service Business Permit
- Purpose: This permit is required for operating a food service business.
- Estimated Cost: The cost is based on the type of food service business you have.
- How to Register: You can apply for this permit through your local municipal office.
5. Land Use Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required for changes to or establishment of land use.
- Estimated Cost: The Master Use Permit costs between $3,700-$5,000.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
6. Construction Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required for minor interior alterations, small projects, remodels, and new construction.
- Estimated Cost: The costs are usually based on the project value.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
7. Trade Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required to conduct trade in Washington.
- Estimated Cost: Trade Permits cost $5 per person.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
8. Sprinkler and Fire Alarm Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required for installing sprinklers and fire alarms.
- Estimated Cost: These permits cost $110.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
9. Sign and Awning Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required for installing or altering a permanent sign.
- Estimated Cost: The basic fee for signs up to 100 square feet is $120.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
10. Right-of-Way Permits
- Purpose: These permits are required for outdoor seating.
- Estimated Cost: The cost for tables & chairs is $146 and for sidewalk cafés is $516.
- How to Register: You can apply for these permits through your local municipal office.
For more information about opening a restaurant in Seattle, please refer to the following links:
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