Food permits
- Restaurants, food trucks, and caterers: food establishment permit from your local health department, or DSHS where there isn't one.
- Food manufacturers and wholesalers: food manufacturer license from DSHS.
- Cottage food: no permit, inspection, or local fee for home-based food businesses, up to $150,000 in gross sales per year (adjusted for inflation).
- Since September 1, 2025, cottage producers can sell most foods except meat and a few other high-risk items. Selling refrigerated foods requires registering with DSHS.
- Cottage sales must stay in Texas, but you can ship within the state.
- Alcohol requires a permit from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC).
Local health department requirements
- Contact your city or county health department first. Fees and inspection schedules vary.
- Food employees need a food handler certificate, and establishments need a certified food manager.
- Cottage food producers must complete a food handler course.
- Farmers markets and events usually need a temporary food permit.
Facility permits
- New or remodeled food establishments usually need health department plan review before building.
- Building, plumbing, electrical, and certificate of occupancy permits come from your city or county.
- Check zoning before signing a lease.
- Commercial kitchens often need a grease trap and fire suppression approval.
These are Texas state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other Texas Business Types
Texas Construction & Trades: Licenses and Permits
Construction / Trades license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Texas LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
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Transportation license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Texas LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
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Ecommerce license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Texas LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
Texas Consulting & Freelance Business: Licenses and Permits
Consulting / Freelance license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Texas LLCs, as bullet points with official links.