Who needs a food establishment license in Rhode Island?

Issued by Rhode Island Department of Health, Center for Food Protection, at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in Rhode Island

The state, not the city, licenses food in Rhode Island. For a new space or a renovation above half the establishment’s value, submit the plan review package (application, three sets of plans, the menu and the fee) at least one month before construction; an existing kitchen files two weeks before opening. Pass the opening inspection, then post the license. The Center for Food Protection is at 401-222-2749.

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 Rhode Island Department of Health, Center for Food Protection.

Sources and dates

216-RICR-10-05-2.11 (Department of Health food protection fees); Center for Food Protection new food establishment page and food service application; Rhode Island Food Code (216-RICR-50-10-1). Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.