What makes restaurant permits different than other types of permits? There are quite a few things, from a phase I standpoint, that make restaurant permits different, and in this article I will highlight 3 important ways they are.
When working to get restaurant permits it is important to find a permit expediting team that can handle this for you.
Health Department Regulations
The first important way restaurant permits are different than other types of permits is the health department regulations that must be met automatically. First, every surface of an eating establishment kitchen must be washable, and that includes the ceiling! Additionally, the fire department will need to participate in the health department’s review to ensure the correct type of protection is used in the kitchen. Additionally, some jurisdictions require an explanation for how to handle grease. Grease trap interceptors are often mandated by the health department to ensure proper disposal of grease. Lastly, the health department works hand-in-hand with the sanitation department to make sure the establishment is public ready.
2 Liquor Licenses
Liquor licenses represent a large part of what makes or breaks a restaurant in the business sense, and the same goes for the permits surrounding it. Conditional use permits must be obtained before you can go to ABC department to get a license. Further, you need to decide which type of liquor license is right for your establishment. For more information on the different types of licenses check out our article, Which Liquor License to Get for Your Restaurant. But, a crucial part of the conditional use permit and liquor license processes are the city counsel hearings required for each. This allows for the neighborhood to get involved and approve or reject your application. Plus, as an added bonus, you won’t get a refund for your trouble! Sure, you can try for the lottery the state holds every year but did you catch the word “lottery”? Be sure to have a strategy for liquor licenses in place before you apply for your permit.
3 Change of Use Permits
Unless the space you want is already a restaurant you’re going to need a change of use permit along with your conditional use permit. This is different than your building permit process, and requires research to be done. After you have compiled your research to prove precedence you will need to have a narrative to present to the city. Telling the story of the location as well as adhering to the character of the neighborhood is crucial in the change of use permit process. Cities don’t take too kindly to changing local color and are more sensitive to gentrification than ever before. Further, the city counsel may require you to do an intensification study into noise, parking, traffic flow, and anything else that may cause congestion.
There are boatloads more I can get into as we talk about restaurant permits, but I imagine not many of you want to read a book on the subject. But, hopefully this helps you realize the bigger aspects to consider as you try to get permit approvals for your bona fide eating establishment. Again, don’t try to go it alone. Call me directly or message me via LinkedIn. Me and my team will get you the efficient and cost effective solution you need for your restaurant.
About Us: Permit Advisors Inc is a nationwide permit expediting, entitlement, and consulting firm based out of Beverly HIlls, CA. We have established relationships with municipalities nation-wide and implement time as well as cost saving strategies to efficiently complete projects. We provide a project management team to ensure every aspect of the project is given specific attention while maintaining open communication between the jurisdiction, consultants, and our clients. We serve retailers, architects, landlords, tenant coordinators, contractors and franchisees nationwide in the hotel, retail, restaurant, mixed-use, multifamily, entertainment, grocery, and logistical plant development industries. Contact us today for a consultation at www.permitadvisors.com.