Restaurant (Full-Service) Permits in Memphis, Tennessee — All 62 Requirements (2026)

Based on ApronPrep's analysis of Memphis, Tennessee compliance data, you need to file for 62 permits, licenses, and compliance documents. This breaks down to 21 federal requirements, 20 from the state of Tennessee, and 21 city-specific requirements from Memphis. These include everything from your Federal EIN and OSHA forms to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission license and Memphis's specific Health Department Permit.

The total estimated range for government filing fees is $802 to $1,452. This wide range accounts for variable costs like the Memphis Health Department Permit fee, which is based on square footage per its fee schedule, and Tennessee's Alcohol License fees, which vary by license type. Fixed costs include items like the federal trademark registration fee, per the USPTO fee schedule.

The typical timeline to secure all necessary approvals is 6 to 12 weeks. The process is divided into three phases: foundational business registration (1-2 weeks), health and safety approvals like the Memphis Health Department inspection (3-6 weeks), and final operational permits like the Tennessee ABC license (2-4 weeks). Processing times are based on typical durations posted on the relevant government department websites.

You should start with foundational business registrations that unlock other applications. First, secure your Federal EIN from the IRS and register your business entity with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Next, apply for your Memphis Business Tax License and Certificate of Occupancy, as these are prerequisites for your Health Department Permit application. This strategic order helps prevent bottlenecks later in the 6-12 week process.

Key renewals include the Memphis Health Department Permit, which must be renewed annually with a fee and inspection. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission license also requires annual renewal, and the City of Memphis Business Tax License must be renewed each year, per the Revenue Division's requirements. Operators should also maintain monthly sales tax filings with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Not legal advice.