Licenses & Permits to Open a Restaurants & Bar in Nashville, TN
Opening a restaurants & bar in Nashville 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 Nashville
| License | Required? | Cost | Issuing Agency | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Yes | $50–$500 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
| Health Permit | Yes | $100–$1000 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
| Food Handler's Permit | Yes | $10–$50 | Metropolitan Clerk | Every 2–3 years |
| Liquor / Alcohol License | If applicable | $300–$15000 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
| Fire Inspection Certificate | Yes | $50–$500 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
| Signage / Sign Permit | If applicable | $25–$500 | Metropolitan Clerk | One-time or annual |
| Building Permit | If applicable | $100–$5000 | Metropolitan Clerk | Per project |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Yes | $25–$500 | Metropolitan Clerk | Upon change of use or tenancy |
| Sales Tax Permit | Yes | $0–$100 | Metropolitan Clerk | Varies by state |
| DBA / Fictitious Business Name | If applicable | $10–$100 | Metropolitan Clerk | Every 5 years |
| Music License (ASCAP / BMI / SESAC) | If applicable | $250–$2000 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
| Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining Permit | If applicable | $100–$1500 | Metropolitan Clerk | Annual |
Total Estimated Cost
The total licensing cost for a restaurants & bar in Nashville 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 Nashville.
We can register missing licenses first, then manage every renewal deadline.
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