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