Catering Business Permit Requirements in St. Louis, MO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in St. Louis, St. Louis City County, Missouri.

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

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

St. Louis / St. Louis City County Requirements

2 requirements
1

St. Louis City County / St. Louis Catering / Food Service Establishment License

Catering businesses operating out of St. Louis 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 St. Louis License Collector — Business License

St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County) and requires a Business License from the License Collector's office. 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

Missouri State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Missouri Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Missouri. The state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary by city and county. Register online with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
2

Missouri Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Missouri requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam.

$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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