To start a coffee business in Maine, decide whether you’re opening a café, mobile cart, or roastery—this drives permits, buildout, and tax treatment. Form an LLC with Maine’s Secretary of State, obtain an EIN, and open a Maine Revenue Services tax account; charge 8% on prepared beverages, while bagged beans for home use may be exempt—confirm your product mix with MRS. For cafés/carts, submit a plan review to the DHHS Health Inspection Program before construction with equipment layout and plumbing; install NSF equipment, a hand sink and 3-compartment sink, and backflow prevention on espresso and ice machines; cold-hold milk at 41°F; test well water; then pass inspection for a Food Establishment License. Brewing cold brew? Expect to provide a HACCP plan and possibly obtain a variance. Mobile carts need a HIP Mobile Food license, commissary agreement, and city vendor/parking permits. Roasteries must verify zoning, fire/dust control, and consult Maine DEP on emissions/odor; follow DACF labeling. Register for unemployment and workers’ comp, follow state and Portland wage/tip-credit rules. Design for winter traffic, treat water hardness, and leverage FAME, CEI, and Maine SBDC for financing. Secure ADA-compliant access, a snow-removal plan, and a grease interceptor if your menu warrants it, and insurance.
