Catering Business Permit Requirements in Austin, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Austin, Travis County, Texas.

$400 -- $1200 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 12, 2026.

Austin / Travis County Requirements

2 requirements

Austin Public Health — Fixed Food Enterprise Permit (Catering Kitchen)

Caterers operating from a fixed commercial kitchen location in Austin must obtain a Fixed Food Enterprise Permit from Austin Public Health Environmental Health Services. As of October 1, 2025, permit fees are based on gross annual food sales rather than number of employees. A pre-opening inspection is required before a permit is issued. If you rent space in a shared/commissary kitchen, that facility must also hold a valid permit. Contact Austin Public Health at 512-978-0300.

$178 pre-opening inspection fee + annual permit fee (varies by annual sales volume; contact APH for current fee schedule)2–6 weeks (includes application review, plan review, and inspection)

Official government source

Travis County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

Required if operating under a business name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Travis County Clerk in person or by mail. Valid up to 10 years.

$24 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day to 1 week

Official government source

Texas State Requirements

3 requirements

Texas Sales Tax Permit

Required for all catering businesses selling food and beverages to customers in Texas. Catering services are taxable when food is prepared and served at the customer's location. Apply for free through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal. The combined tax rate in Austin is 8.25%.

FreeImmediate (online application)

Official government source

Certified Food Manager Certification

Texas law requires at least one Certified Food Manager (CFM) on-site when a food establishment is in operation. The CFM must pass an accredited exam such as ServSafe (National Restaurant Association), Prometric, or another ANSI-CFP accredited program. Texas DSHS recognizes all ANSI-CFP accredited certifications.

$80–$150 (course + exam)1–2 days for course and exam; certification issued same day

Official government source

Texas Food Handler Card

All food employees (anyone who handles unpackaged food, food-contact surfaces, or food-contact equipment) must complete an accredited food handler training program within 60 days of employment. Cards are valid for 2 years. Numerous DSHS-accredited online providers offer the course for as little as $7.

$7–$15 per employee2–4 hours online; card issued upon completion

Official government source