Food Service Establishment Permit

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Steps to apply online:

1.

Gather all supporting documents required to apply for this permit.
2.

Make electronic versions of all documents required for applying for a permit. You will upload these documents into the online permit system. The following document types can be uploaded: PDF, JPG, GIF, PNG, XLS, XLSX, DOC, DOCX, VSD, and TXT.
3.

Create an account with the NYC Online Licensing system. Payment is required to complete and submit the application so applicants should have their credit or debit card information readily available. Partially completed applications may be saved and returned to later for completion.
4.

Select the Food Service Establishment permit type from the list (this depends on the organization operating the establishment and its non-profit status) and enter the requested information into each field. Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars should select Food Service Establishment (General). Fields with an asterisk (*) are required. Applicants will be requested to upload copies of the documents identified in the Prerequisites section above. These documents can be uploaded individually or as a single file.

Note: If you plan to manufacture and serve frozen desserts in your establishment, select Food Service Establishment (general): Also Manufactures Frozen Desserts.
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5.

While in the online system, applicants will receive information about contacting NYC Business Acceleration (NYCBA) to request a Pre-Operational Inspection. Pre-operational inspections allow business owners to have a DOHMH inspector identify deficiencies in their establishment before the final pre-permit inspection and may allow the establishment to open before 22 days.
Pre-Operational Inspection Request
6.

If your food establishment will be wheelchair accessible and you would like a Wheelchair Friendly Decal for your entrance, you may complete the survey while applying for your new permit online.
7.

Pay with a credit or debit card to complete the application.

Ready to Apply?

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Steps to apply by mail:

1.

Applications for new permits are not accepted by mail.

Steps to apply in person:

1.

Complete the Application for Permit form, the Supplemental Application form, and the Wheelchair Friendly Survey form, if applicable. Forms, along with detailed instructions, can be found in the Application Packet for a Food Service Establishment Permit.
Permit Application Packet for a New Food Service Establishment - with Instructions (PDF)
2.

If your food establishment will manufacture and serve frozen desserts, you must obtain an additional permit to do so. You will need to submit a separate application form and payment for this permit.
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3.

File all forms, required documentation, and pay the required fees in person at the DCA Licensing Center.
NYC Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
Licensing Center
42 Broadway, Lobby
New York, NY 10004
4.

You may contact NYC Business Acceleration (NYCBA) to request a pre-operational inspection. A pre-operational inspection allows business owners to have a NYC Health inspector identify deficiencies in their establishment before the final pre-permit inspection. It may also allow the establishment to open before 22 days.
NBAT Pre-Operation Inspection Request

NYC Business Acceleration (NYCBA)
110 William Street, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10038
Phone: (212)-618-6788
businesshelp@sbs.nyc.gov

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Disclaimer

The City has tried to provide you with correct information on this website. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date, errors are still possible. The information provided is not legal advice. You may need additional information to meet the legal requirements for starting or operating your business.

Food Service Establishment Permit

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Steps to apply online:

Ready to Apply?

Steps to apply by mail:

Steps to apply in person:

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