Complete restaurant compliance checklist. Know exactly what licenses, permits, and regulations your restaurant business needs. Free compliance check in 2 minutes.
Required for all food service establishments. Must be obtained before opening and renewed annually.
Fines up to $10,000 and forced closure
All 50 states
Required to serve alcoholic beverages. Separate licenses needed for beer/wine vs spirits.
Fines up to $50,000 and license revocation
All states where alcohol is served
Regular health inspections and permits required. Staff food safety certification mandatory.
Fines $500-$5,000 per violation, closure for serious violations
All 50 states
Fire safety inspections and suppression system maintenance required for commercial kitchens.
Fines up to $25,000, forced closure until compliant
All 50 states
Mandatory for restaurants with employees due to high injury rates in kitchen environments.
Fines up to $100,000, criminal charges for willful non-compliance
All states except Texas (optional)
FDA regulations for food safety plans, preventive controls, and supplier verification.
FDA fines up to $10,000 per violation, criminal charges possible
All 50 states (federal law)
Accessibility requirements for dining areas, restrooms, and entrances.
Lawsuits seeking damages plus attorney fees, forced renovations
All 50 states (federal law)
SMBRegs uses the business details you provide to generate a tailored checklist, suggested priorities, and tracked deadlines for follow-up.
Track update signals and reminders related to your industry. Timing and coverage can vary, so verify material changes with the issuing agency.
Use SMBRegs to organize industry-specific requirements and research questions before you decide whether to involve a lawyer, accountant, or other qualified advisor.
Organize all your licenses, permits, and compliance documents in one secure location with renewal reminders.
Yes, most states require at least one certified food protection manager on-site during operating hours. Some states require all food handlers to have basic food safety training. Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.
Beer/wine licenses typically cost $300-3,000 annually and allow sale of beer and wine only. Full liquor licenses cost $3,000-40,000+ annually and permit sale of all alcoholic beverages including spirits. Requirements and costs vary significantly by state.
Most jurisdictions inspect restaurants 1-3 times per year, depending on risk level and previous compliance history. High-volume establishments may be inspected more frequently. Critical violations can trigger immediate re-inspection.
Yes, restaurants can be held liable for allergic reactions if they fail to properly disclose allergen information or cross-contaminate food. Proper staff training and clear allergen protocols are essential legal protections.
Yes, in most states, workers' compensation is required regardless of whether employees are full-time or part-time. The restaurant industry has high injury rates, making this coverage especially important and heavily regulated.