To start a coffee business in Ohio, choose your model—cafe, drive-thru, mobile cart, or roastery—then sequence permits and build-out to avoid delays. Form an LLC with the Ohio Secretary of State (Ohio Business Central), get an IRS EIN, register for an Ohio Vendor’s License to collect sales tax, and enroll for Commercial Activity Tax if annual gross receipts exceed $150,000. For a cafe or drive-thru, secure zoning and a Certificate of Occupancy; submit stamped plans to your local health department for Retail Food Establishment plan review before construction; typical review is 2–6 weeks. At least one manager must hold Ohio Level Two Food Protection. Mobile espresso? Apply for a Mobile Food Service Operation license and a commissary agreement. Roasting or wholesale? Obtain an Ohio Department of Agriculture Food Processing Establishment license; comply with labeling (business name, address, ingredients, allergens, dual net weight) and Weights and Measures device and package rules. Build for coffee: 3/4-inch water line, backflow preventer, filtration sized for espresso and ice, 240V 30A circuits, and, for multiple machines, three-phase power; confirm grease interceptor or Type II hood needs based on menu. Finally, set POS for Ohio tax, add BWC workers’ comp, and ODJFS unemployment, and payroll setup.
