Permits for a Restaurant in Duluth, Minnesota

Authorizes the on-premises sale of malt liquor containing not more than 3.2% alcohol by weight. Issued by local municipalities. In 2025, HF 536 was introduced to raise the threshold from 3.2% to 5.5% ABV and automatically convert existing 3.2% licenses. Available to restaurants and stores that don't hold a full on-sale intoxicating liquor license.

Authorizes on-premises sale of intoxicating liquor (spirits, beer, wine) at bars, restaurants, and similar establishments. Issued by the local municipality with oversight from the Minnesota Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division (AGE) of the Department of Public Safety. Fees are set by the municipality under MN Statutes §340A.408.

Authorizes on-premises sale of wine at restaurants. Can be combined with a 3.2% malt liquor license to also serve strong beer. License fee may not exceed one-half of the on-sale intoxicating liquor license fee or $2,000, whichever is less. Per MN §340A.404.

All business entities (LLCs, corporations, partnerships) must register with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Sole proprietorships operating under a different name must file a Certificate of Assumed Name. Annual renewal required for LLCs and corporations.

Employers paying covered wages in Minnesota must register with the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance (UI) Program administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Registration is free.

Minnesota law requires all employers with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance or obtain approval for self-insurance from the Department of Commerce. No minimum employee threshold. Coverage obtained through private insurers.

Commercial establishments in Minnesota must obtain a Fire Certificate of Occupancy from the local fire department, verifying compliance with the Minnesota State Fire Code. Required for assembly, restaurant, and commercial occupancies. Re-inspection on a regular cycle.

Required for any establishment preparing or serving food in Minnesota. Licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) or delegated local health department. Covers food safety, sanitation, and facility standards. Includes a mandatory $50 statewide hospitality fee.

Minnesota requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) at each food establishment. The CFPM must pass an ANSI-accredited exam such as ServSafe. Required under the Minnesota Food Code. Certification is valid for 5 years.

Required for installing or modifying business signs in Minnesota. Administered by the local municipality's planning/zoning department. Regulates sign size, height, illumination, setbacks, and type per the local sign ordinance. Outdoor advertising along state highways regulated by MnDOT.

Businesses making taxable sales in Minnesota must register for a Minnesota Tax ID Number and a Sales and Use Tax account with the Department of Revenue. State sales tax rate is 6.875% plus local rates. Registration is free.

Employers paying wages in Minnesota must register with the Department of Revenue for state income tax withholding. Required in addition to sales tax registration. Minnesota has a progressive state income tax (5.35%–9.85%).

Required before occupying a new or renovated commercial space in Minnesota. Issued by the local building department after passing final building inspection. Verifies compliance with the Minnesota State Building Code. Required for new construction, change of use, or significant renovations.

Verifies that a business location complies with local zoning ordinances (commercial, industrial, mixed-use). Required before opening any new business or changing use of an existing space. Issued by local planning/zoning authority. Conditional Use Permits (CUP) may be required for certain uses such as bars or auto repair.