Licenses & Permits to Open a Restaurants & Bar in Memphis, TN
Opening a restaurants & bar in Memphis requires between 12–16 permits. Here's the complete list, with costs, timelines, and links to every agency. If you are missing licenses, we can handle registration and then manage renewals for you.
Complete License Checklist for Restaurants & Bars in Memphis
| License | Required? | Cost | Issuing Agency | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Yes | $50–$500 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
| Health Permit | Yes | $100–$1000 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
| Food Handler's Permit | Yes | $10–$50 | Division of Revenue | Every 2–3 years |
| Liquor / Alcohol License | If applicable | $300–$15000 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
| Fire Inspection Certificate | Yes | $50–$500 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
| Signage / Sign Permit | If applicable | $25–$500 | Division of Revenue | One-time or annual |
| Building Permit | If applicable | $100–$5000 | Division of Revenue | Per project |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Yes | $25–$500 | Division of Revenue | Upon change of use or tenancy |
| Sales Tax Permit | Yes | $0–$100 | Division of Revenue | Varies by state |
| DBA / Fictitious Business Name | If applicable | $10–$100 | Division of Revenue | Every 5 years |
| Music License (ASCAP / BMI / SESAC) | If applicable | $250–$2000 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
| Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining Permit | If applicable | $100–$1500 | Division of Revenue | Annual |
Total Estimated Cost
The total licensing cost for a restaurants & bar in Memphis varies based on your specific business activities, size, and location. Budget for the sum of all applicable license fees listed above, plus potential inspection and professional certification costs.
We'll track all licenses for your restaurants & bar in Memphis.
We can register missing licenses first, then manage every renewal deadline.
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