Permits for a Restaurant in Boulder, Colorado

Authorizes the sale of beer and wine (but not spirits) for on-premises consumption. Suitable for restaurants and cafes that do not wish to serve cocktails. Requires dual state/local approval.

Authorizes the sale of fermented malt beverages (3.2% ABW beer) for on-premises or off-premises consumption. This is a local-only license issued by the local licensing authority. Commonly held by convenience stores and grocery stores.

Authorizes the sale of all types of alcohol beverages for on-premises consumption at a hotel or restaurant. Most common full-service restaurant/bar license in Colorado. Requires both state and local approval (dual licensing authority). State fee $1,100 + local fee up to $1,000.

Colorado encourages responsible alcohol server training. Many municipalities require it. Completing an approved training program may reduce liability for licensed establishments.

Required before opening or occupying a commercial space in Colorado. Confirms the building meets building codes, fire codes, and zoning requirements for the intended use.

Most Colorado cities and counties require a general business license or tax registration. Denver requires a business license for all businesses operating within city limits. Requirements and fees vary by municipality.

LLCs, corporations, and other formal business entities must register with the Colorado Secretary of State. Required before obtaining most other business licenses. Annual report filing required to maintain good standing.

Any Colorado business that plays copyrighted music publicly — background music, live bands, DJs, jukeboxes, or streaming — must obtain public performance licenses from ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.

Colorado employers must register with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) and pay state unemployment insurance (SUTA) tax. New employer rate is 1.7% on the first $23,800 per employee (2026). Registration is completed through the CDLE Employer Services portal.

Colorado requires workers' compensation insurance for all employers with one or more employees. Must be obtained from a licensed insurance carrier, Pinnacol Assurance (quasi-state insurer), or through self-insurance. Regulated by the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation.

Required for commercial establishments with assembly occupancy, cooking operations, or fire suppression systems. Local fire departments issue permits based on the International Fire Code as adopted by Colorado.

Colorado requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager per retail food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-CFP accredited exam (ServSafe, National Registry, etc.). Some local jurisdictions require this; statewide requirement under the Colorado Retail Food Establishment Rules.

Required for any establishment preparing, serving, or selling food in Colorado. Licensed and inspected by the county or district public health agency. Covers food safety, sanitation, and facility standards under the Colorado Retail Food Establishment Rules and Regulations (6 CCR 1010-2).

Required for installing, replacing, or modifying permanent exterior business signage in Colorado. Must comply with local sign ordinances.

Required for all businesses making retail sales of tangible personal property or taxable services in Colorado. State sales tax rate is 2.9% plus applicable local rates. Must be obtained before opening. The license is free but must be renewed periodically. Applied for through the Colorado Department of Revenue.

Employers in Colorado must register to withhold state income tax from employee wages. Registration required before first payroll.

Verification from the city or county planning department that the proposed business use is permitted in the zoning district. Required before issuing a business license in Colorado.