Catering Business Permit Requirements in Dover, DE

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Dover, Kent County, Delaware.

$500 -- $1500 4–8 weeks 5 requirements

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

Dover / Kent County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Kent County / Dover Catering / Food Service Establishment License

Catering businesses operating out of Dover must obtain a Food Service Establishment License from the local health department. This requires a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) and an on-site inspection.

$200–$500/year2–6 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Dover Planning and Inspections Department — Business License

Dover requires a Certificate of Occupancy and applicable business permits for businesses operating within city limits. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source

Delaware State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Delaware — No Sales Tax

Delaware has no state or local sales tax. Instead, Delaware levies a Gross Receipts Tax on the seller of goods or provider of services, based on total receipts. Register with the Delaware Division of Revenue.

Free (gross receipts tax registration)Immediate (online)
Official government source
2

Delaware Division of Public Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Delaware requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider.

$80–$1501–2 days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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