Coffee shop business setup Alabama starts with site control and zoning confirmation (drive‑thru, parking, grease trap capacity), then entity formation and permits sequenced to your build‑out. Form an Alabama LLC online and get an EIN; confirm name availability and reserve during the Certificate of Formation. Register on My Alabama Taxes for a Sales Tax License (coffee and prepared beverages are taxable at state plus local rates) and withholding; file the Alabama Business Privilege Tax (Form PPT) within 2.5 months of formation and annually. Obtain a county Business Privilege License and city business license before opening. For food service, submit an ADPH plan review to your county health department with floor plan, equipment specs (NSF/ANSI), menu, plumbing/venting, and water/sewer approvals; expect 10–30 days and a pre‑opening inspection. Build for code: 3‑compartment sink, hand sinks, backflow preventers, adequate hot water, potential grease interceptor, ADA seating, and 200‑amp electrical with 220–240V circuits for espresso equipment plus water filtration. Hire compliantly: enroll in E‑Verify, set up unemployment insurance, workers’ comp if 5+ employees, a Certified Food Protection Manager on staff, and a Child Labor Certificate if hiring minors. Round out with general/product liability, property, and business interruption coverage. Secure signage permits and occupancy approvals.
