Catering Business Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements
3 requirementsCatering Establishment License
Issued by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, this license is required for all catering businesses preparing and serving food at off-site events. Includes an inspection of your commissary or prep kitchen and review of food handling procedures.
Commercial Activity License
Issued by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I), this is the base business license required for commercial operation in Philadelphia. Catering businesses must hold this in addition to the health department catering license.
Commissary Kitchen Agreement
Philadelphia requires caterers to operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen for food prep, storage, and cleanup. The commissary must be a Philadelphia Department of Public Health-approved facility. A written agreement with the commissary is required as part of the licensing process.
Pennsylvania State Requirements
3 requirementsPA Department of Agriculture Food Establishment Permit
Required by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for catering operations serving food at multiple locations across the state. Includes a plan review and facility inspection of the commissary or prep kitchen used by the catering business.
PA Sales Tax License
Required by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Catering services are generally subject to Pennsylvania sales tax when food is provided with service. Operators must register and collect and remit sales tax.
ServSafe Food Safety Certification
While not a state-issued license, the PA Department of Agriculture requires that at least one certified food safety manager be associated with each catering operation. ServSafe or equivalent ANAB-accredited certification satisfies this requirement.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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