Division of Hotels and Restaurants

Catering FAQ

All information on this page is current and was last reviewed by the division on November 18, 2008.

1. Q: Can I run a catering business out of my home?

A: No.  Florida law prohibits conducting food establishment operations in a private home, a room used as living or sleeping quarters, or an area directly opening into a room used as living or sleeping quarters. 

2. Q: Do I need a catering license if I run my business from a restaurant my friend owns?

A: Yes.  Separate, independent caterers using the equipment or premises of a licensed establishment are deemed operators (as defined by section 509.013, F.S.) of such public food service establishment and subject to all applicable requirements of law and rule.

3. Q: Will I need to go through a plan review if I use the facilities of an establishment licensed by the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services?

A: Yes.  Since the establishment has not been licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, a plan review is required.

4. Q: Can I use my catering vehicle to drive around and sell food to the public?

A: No.  Any vehicle operating in this manner must be licensed as a Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle.