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