To start a coffee shop in South Carolina, lock down zoning and utilities first, then secure core licenses: register an LLC with the SC Secretary of State, get an EIN, and obtain a SC sales tax license from the Department of Revenue. Before buildout, submit plans to SC DHEC for a Retail Food Establishment permit (plan review required for new or remodeled spaces); expect a pre‑opening inspection and at least one Certified Food Protection Manager on staff. Obtain your city/county business license, sign permit, fire/life‑safety and certificate of occupancy; some municipalities assess a hospitality tax on prepared drinks. If offering beer/wine, apply for SLED background and an ABL license. Verify grease interceptor and backflow requirements with the utility; many jurisdictions require FOG compliance even for espresso bars. Target 200A electrical, 3‑phase if possible, commercial ventilation, floor drains, and water filtration sized for your espresso machine. Budget $150k–$400k for buildout/equipment; order long‑lead items (espresso machine, millwork) at lease execution. Choose a POS that handles SC mixed tax rates and mobile ordering; set filing cadence for state/local sales taxes. Carry general, property, workers’ comp (4+ employees), and liquor liability if applicable. Differentiate with drive‑thru, roasting, or local partnerships to win daily traffic.
