Charleston Business Daily

What license if any do I need to start a home-based catering service?

I am thinking of starting my own catering business from home. What licenses or requirements do I need? Do i need a license or anything for doing it from my home? Any info would be great.

Public Comments

1. Most health departments require a commercial style kitchen, which your home kitchen will not meet their codes. The best place to check what licenses and other code requirements are needed would be your local health department and county clerks office. There is a tremendous amount of paperwork to be done beforehand, but don't get discouraged. Best of luck.
2. Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links. Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant: * How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, 5th by Denise Vivaldo * How to Run a Catering Business from Home by Christopher Egerton-Thomas * Start and Run a Catering Business by George Erdosh There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles. Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!
3. Sounds really good! Recently I came upon a very useful site. It is http://www.businesslicenses.com It is a company that is based in Airmont, NY and it has over 25,000 permits, licenses…. etc. for every city, county, and state serving the entire United States. Try it!! I think it will really help you!