Skip to content
Ask a question
All posts

What are the legal requirements for opening a restaurant in Ohio?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To open a restaurant in Ohio, the following legal requirements must be met:

  1. Business Registration: The restaurant owner must register their restaurant with the Ohio Secretary of State or the county recorder's office. They must obtain a business license and register for state and local taxes.

  2. Food Service Operation Permit: The restaurant owner must obtain a food service operation permit from the Ohio Department of Health. This permit ensures that the restaurant meets state regulations, standards, and requirements related to food safety, sanitation, and health.

  3. Liquor License: If the restaurant will serve alcohol, the owner must obtain a liquor license from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control. The license is required for restaurants to serve beer, wine, and spirits.

  4. Zoning and Land Use Permits: The restaurant owner must verify that the location of the restaurant complies with zoning ordinances and regulations. The local zoning and land use office must give the restaurant owner appropriate permits to operate.

  5. Employment Law: Ohio has specific employment laws that the restaurant owner must follow. They must comply with minimum wage and overtime laws, employee discrimination and harassment laws, and health and safety laws. It is important to consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with these laws.

  6. Accessibility Laws: The restaurant owner must ensure that their restaurant is accessible to people with disabilities as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Ohio law. The ADA sets forth specific requirements for accessible design and construction of facilities. The restaurant must follow these standards and obtain any necessary permits.

  7. Insurance: The restaurant owner must obtain proper insurance coverage to protect themselves and their business from any liability, property damage, or other issues that may arise.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the location and type of restaurant to be opened. Restaurant owners must also comply with other regulations, such as the Ohio Clean Indoor Air Act, Ohio construction codes, Ohio employee payroll taxes, and Ohio Department of Agriculture inspections.

Therefore, to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, restaurant owners should seek the advice of legal counsel to help navigate the legal requirements and potential pitfalls.