Starting a food business in Florida requires more than just a great recipe or eye-catching décor. One of the most important—and potentially most stressful—steps is complying with the requirements of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
This agency regulates Florida’s hospitality industry through its Division of Hotels and Restaurants, which is responsible for issuing licenses, conducting health inspections, and enforcing strict food safety rules. If you fail to comply, your restaurant may not be allowed to open—or worse, could be shut down at any time.
Below, we explain how to meet DBPR regulations step by step, avoid common (and costly) mistakes, and keep your sanity throughout the process.
What Is the DBPR and Why Is It Essential for Your Restaurant?
The DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation) is the Florida state agency that oversees more than 30 industries and professions, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and mobile food services.
If you’re opening a restaurant—whether it’s a traditional sit-down, a food truck, a ghost kitchen, or a pop-up—you’re required to obtain a DBPR license.
The DBPR is also in charge of all health inspections, both initial and periodic, many of which may be unannounced. Failing to maintain an active license or passing an inspection can lead to fines, suspension, or closure.
Step 1: Prepare the Location to Meet Technical Requirements
Before applying for a license, your restaurant must be physically adapted to meet DBPR standards. This includes:
• Washable, easy-to-clean floors, ceilings, and walls
• Adequate lighting in all food prep and storage areas
• Handwashing sinks with hot water, soap, and paper towels in key locations
• Refrigeration equipment maintaining 41°F or below
• Proper food, utensil, and cleaning supply storage
• Ventilation and hood systems where cooking is performed
Every aspect of your layout must comply with DBPR health codes. A common mistake is remodeling the space without professional guidance and later realizing it doesn’t meet the required standards—resulting in delays or costly adjustments.
Step 2: Submit Your DBPR License Application
Once your space is ready, you can apply for your license through the DBPR’s online portal. You’ll need to:
• Select your business type (restaurant, catering service, food truck, etc.)
• Complete the application with owner details, business structure, address, capacity, type of service, and more
• Upload floor plans and any required supporting documentation
• Pay the applicable fee (varies by business type and county)
DBPR will review your application and schedule your initial inspection. You may only legally operate after passing this inspection.
Step 3: Pass the DBPR Initial Inspection
The DBPR inspection is mandatory before you open your restaurant. During this visit, the inspector will check:
• Overall cleanliness of the establishment
• Refrigerator and cooking equipment temperatures
• Safe storage of raw and cooked foods
• Properly installed handwashing sinks and utensil wash stations
• Required safety signage (e.g., “Wash Your Hands” signs in bathrooms and kitchens)
• Full compliance with all sanitary regulations
If the inspector finds any issues, you’ll be given a short window to correct them. Once approved, you’ll receive your DBPR Certificate of Operation and can open to the public.
Step 4: Staff Training and Certification
DBPR regulations require all food-handling staff to be properly trained:
• At least one manager per shift must have a valid Food Manager Certificate approved by the state
• All other staff handling food must have a Food Handler Certificate, which can be obtained online through authorized providers
These certificates must be current and readily available for inspection.
Step 5: Maintain Ongoing Compliance After Opening
DBPR compliance doesn’t stop once you open. Your restaurant will be subject to routine, often unannounced, inspections. To stay compliant:
• Conduct weekly internal audits of cleaning procedures and food temperatures
• Train new hires on food safety standards from day one
• Keep DBPR licenses and staff certifications visible at all times
• Monitor expiration dates for all licenses and certifications
• Maintain logs for cleaning, pest control, and equipment maintenance
Additional Tips to Stay Sane
- Avoid improvising. Opening without proper guidance can cost more in the long run than doing it right the first time.
• Consult experts. A business attorney with experience in the food industry can help you understand DBPR and other regulatory requirements.
• Don’t underestimate inspections. DBPR inspections are thorough and can shut down your operation if serious violations are found.
• Plan ahead. From preparing your location to passing the inspection, the process can take several weeks. Start early.
Ready to Comply with DBPR Without Complications? We’ll Guide You Step by Step
At Jurado & Associates, we help food entrepreneurs meet all DBPR requirements so they can open their restaurants in Florida with confidence. From legal preparation and licensing to inspection support—we’re with you every step of the way.
Contact us via WhatsApp at +1 305 921 0976or email us at [email protected]for a personalized consultation.
Opening your restaurant doesn’t have to be a legal nightmare. With the right guidance, it’s a clear and secure process.
