As a rule, you need a permit to operate a restaurant. A catering trade is operated by anyone in a standing trade who
- serves beverages for consumption on the premises (tavern) or
- serves prepared food for consumption on the premises (catering business)
- and if the business is accessible to everyone or to certain groups of people.
You also operate a catering business if, as an independent tradesman, you serve drinks or prepared food on a temporary basis, for example only for the duration of an event.
You do not need a restaurant license if you
- serve non-alcoholic beverages
- free samples,
- prepared meals or
- serve drinks and prepared meals to house guests in connection with an accommodation business.
Online service
Apply for your restaurant business conveniently online.
Information on online application
Prerequisites
Procedure
Required documents
Processing time
Fees
Legal basis
Public order office
Trade and catering law
Service hotline
You have questions? Call us: from any network, without an area code. Authorities number 115: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can usually reach the authorities number 115 at fixed network tariffs and thus free of charge via flat rates. Sign language telephone: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.