To start a coffee business in Idaho, prioritize permits and site: secure a zoned location (drive-thru often needs a conditional use permit) and map a 60–120 day timeline to opening. Form an LLC with the Idaho Secretary of State ($100 online), file an assumed business name if needed ($25), get an EIN, then register on the Idaho State Tax Commission’s I-Register for a sales tax permit (6% state; some resort cities add local tax) and for withholding/unemployment if hiring. Apply for city business license and a food establishment permit with your local Public Health District; submit menu, floor plan, equipment specs (espresso machine, commercial refrigeration at 41°F, 3-compartment sink, hand sinks), and pass pre-opening inspections; ensure a certified food protection manager is on staff. For carts/trucks, obtain a commissary agreement and route approvals. During buildout, pull building/plumbing permits, install backflow prevention, verify ADA counter heights and aisle widths, and add a grease interceptor if food prep triggers it; obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. If roasting, clear air-quality requirements with Idaho DEQ, document dust control, and get fire marshal sign-off. Configure POS to accurately tax prepared beverages, set monthly remittance, secure liability/workers’ comp insurance, and implement water filtration and equipment maintenance.
