When selecting the building for your nightclub, there are restrictions limiting where you might open such a business. Normally you can't open a nightclub in close proximity to a school or church. The licenses, fees and permits required when opening a nightclub can vary according to the state, county and city laws where you intend to operate the business. The activities you propose to offer in the nightclub can also determine what type of permits you will need.
As with most businesses, you typically need a business licensee. You also need a resale permit if your state charges sales tax. Normally, you purchase business licenses at the city level and the permit requires periodic renewal fees, such as once a year. The resale permit, which enables you to collect sales tax, is normally obtained at the state level and may or may not require a fee, depending on the state.
Advertisement Article continues below this adYour local municipality may require you have a fire permit from the local fire marshal, which includes periodic inspections of the property. You will also need an Employee ID number from the Internal Revenue Service. While the number is not a permit exactly, it is necessary to operate a business.
Most nightclubs sell alcohol, which requires a liquor license or permit from your state's liquor authority. Prices for different types of liquor licenses vary, depending on the ratio of alcohol to food you expect to sell. Nightclubs generally sell more alcohol than food, compared to a coffee shop selling alcohol and may require a more expensive bar license or permit. Prices and license types vary by state.
Advertisement Article continues below this adYou also need to register with the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau if you intend to sell alcohol.
Establishments that serve food and beverages generally need a health permit from the local or county health department. Like with the fire marshal, this involves periodic health inspections of the premises. The health department normally requires employees handling food and beverage to pass a food handler's course and obtain a permit.
Other permits possibly required by your local or state government include a sign permit, building permit and historical commission permit, if your building is in a historic district. If you intend to have entertainment, your local municipality may require additional permits. If you intend to expand your nightclub, additional parking permits may be required.