Guides / Denver rules
How to get a food license in Denver
Denver restaurants need a retail food license from Denver's Department of Excise and Licenses. You apply online, submit your zoning use permit, lease, business license and ownership details, pass a health plan review and inspections, and pay an application fee plus a license fee per food-processing activity. Plan for several months.
- Issued by Denver Excise and Licenses, with Public Health inspections.
- Apply online through Denver's permitting and licensing center.
- Application fee $100 to $150. License fee $25 per food-processing activity.
- You need zoning, a lease of 90+ days and a Denver business license first.
- Plan for several months from application to opening.
Which food license do I need?
| License | For |
|---|---|
| Retail Food | Restaurants that store and prepare food for eating on or off site |
| Retail Food Caterer | Catering-focused businesses |
| Retail Food Commissary-Based | Kiosks and stands that use a separate commissary |
| Mobile Food | Food trucks and carts |
| Restaurant Temporary | Single events up to 14 days in a row |
What documents do I need?
- Zoning use permit for the address.
- Proof of property ownership, or a lease of 90 days or longer.
- A current Denver business license.
- Entity documents for your LLC or corporation.
- Names of everyone who owns 10% or more.
- The public health application.
Step by step
- Confirm zoning and get your zoning use permit.
- Submit a health plan review to Denver Public Health and Environment for kitchen layout, sinks, refrigeration and prep areas, before you build.
- Apply online through Denver's permitting and licensing center and choose the license type.
- Pass inspections from the departments listed on your inspection card, including health and fire.
- Receive your license from Excise and Licenses.
How much does it cost?
Denver lists a one-time application fee of $100 to $150 depending on the license type, and a license fee of $25 for each food-processing activity you select. Construction, plan review and other permits are separate.
How long does it take?
Denver's overview does not list a timeline. Permit services commonly advise planning for at least 120 days from a complete application. Start the health plan review early, since changes after construction cost the most.
What else will I need?
- Denver and Colorado sales tax licenses.
- A liquor license, if you serve alcohol, which is a separate process.
- Building permits for any construction.
- Food safety training for staff.
Questions owners ask
Can I apply for a Denver food license online?
Yes, through Denver's online permitting and licensing center.
Do I need a lease before applying?
Yes. Denver asks for proof of ownership or a lease of at least 90 days.
Is a food truck license different?
Yes. Food trucks use the mobile food license and must report a commissary.
Does the food license cover alcohol?
No. Liquor licensing is separate.
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