To get a coffee shop license in Alabama, you must combine state, county, and city approvals: purchase the Alabama business privilege license from your county Probate Judge/License Commissioner, secure an Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Food Establishment Permit after plan review and pre‑opening inspection, and obtain local business license, zoning clearance, and a certificate of occupancy. Submit to ADPH a menu, scaled floor plan, equipment specs, plumbing/ventilation details, and finish schedule before building or installing equipment; espresso bars typically need a 3‑compartment sink, hand sinks, approved dishwashing, food‑grade surfaces, and milk cold‑holding at 41°F or below. Register your entity with the Alabama Secretary of State (if LLC/corp), get an EIN, and enroll in My Alabama Taxes to collect/remit sales tax and any city/county surtaxes; post sales tax at the point of sale. At least one Certified Food Protection Manager is typically required on staff under the FDA Food Code adopted by ADPH. Schedule fire and life‑safety inspections, verify grease interceptor/backflow requirements with utilities, and obtain any sign/drive‑through permits. If serving beer or wine, apply separately with the Alabama ABC Board. Fees and timelines vary by county and city—confirm requirements early to sequence plan review, build‑out, and inspections and approvals.
