catering company?

Question

Im interested in starting up a catering business in my home and i was wondering what all i have to do to get started. I live in PA. I know what i have to do on the money side but what i need info on is what certificates and licenises do i have to have?

Answer 1

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, 5th by Denise Vivaldo
* How to Run a Catering Business from Home by Christopher Egerton-Thomas
* Start and Run a Catering Business by George Erdosh

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Your best bet is to go to your local Town/City Hall and talk to the local clerk or Code Enforcement Officer.

Each location is different so it's hard to peg exactly what licenses you need, but in general terms you will have to get licensed for preparation and storage of food.

This permitting process is going to subject you to inspections by your local code enforcement folks to make sure there is minimal risk for food bourne illness.

Zoning laws will play a factor on whether you are allowed to run this business from your home. Some towns will allow you to run something like this if you live in a dual zoned commercial/residential neighborhood.

If you live in a strictly residential neighborhood you will more than likely not be given a license to operate, but again a quick trip to your local city hall can tell you exactly how your zoned.

Also, you should contact your insurance agent to make sure you are covered properly (this assumes you get a green light from the town) since you will now be carrying more liability.

Is it impossible to run a catering business from your home? Not necessarily, but you may find it easier to sublet some commercial kitchen space for this purpose.

I have a local client that owns a cafe that has sublet some of her kitchen space to a pastry chef. Her cafe business was mornings and afternoon only and she found a baker that wanted to use her stoves and ovens in the afternoon and evenings.

She sublets the space at a reasonable rate which helps her defray her rent expense while the baker gets a professional grade kitchen and storage space at a bargain.

Good luck!

Answer 3

You need to checkwith your local agencies, i.e. county and city licensing depts. , Hrealth Dept. etc;
Most cities do not allow food preparation businesses to be conducted from private homes.