Who needs a retail food establishment license in Michigan?

Issued by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Food and Dairy Division, at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

1 of the 20 kinds of business in Michigan

A bakery selling to take away is a retail food establishment licensed by MDARD; one with seating that serves food to eat there is an extended retail food establishment. Apply at least 30 days before opening with the plans and pass the opening inspection.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Food and Dairy Division.

Sources and dates

MDARD license type guide with fees; food establishment licensing application. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.