Catering Business Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia.

$500 -- $1300 3–8 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspection, and complete certifications 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 13, 2026.

Atlanta / Fulton County Requirements

2 requirements

Fulton County Board of Health — Food Service Permit

Caterers operating in Atlanta and Fulton County must obtain a Food Service Permit from the Fulton County Board of Health, Environmental Health Division. A pre-opening inspection of the catering kitchen is required. Caterers must operate from a permitted commercial kitchen or commissary. Contact Fulton County Environmental Health at 404-613-1584.

$200–$600 annually (based on establishment category and risk level)2–6 weeks (application, plan review, and inspection)

Official government source

City of Atlanta Business License

All businesses operating within Atlanta city limits must obtain a business license from the Atlanta Office of Revenue. Apply online through the Atlanta City portal.

$75–$300 annually1–3 weeks

Official government source

Georgia State Requirements

3 requirements

Georgia Food Safety Certificate

Georgia requires at least one certified food safety manager per food service establishment. The manager must pass an ANSI-accredited food safety manager exam (ServSafe, Prometric, etc.). Georgia Environmental Health inspectors verify certification during inspections.

$80–$150 (course + exam)1–2 days

Official government source

Georgia Sales Tax Registration

Catering services are taxable in Georgia. Register with the Georgia Department of Revenue for a Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration. The combined rate in Atlanta (Fulton County) is 8.9% (4% state + 4% county + 0.9% special purpose).

FreeImmediate (online)

Official government source

Georgia Food Service License (GDPH)

Some catering operations may also require a food service license through the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) Environmental Health section in addition to the county permit. Verify with Fulton County Environmental Health whether both are required for your type of operation.

$150–$400 annually2–4 weeks

Official government source