Permits
Coffee and cart permits in Missouri
To sell coffee in Missouri, you work with your county health department for food and mobile vending permits, then add a business license and state tax registration. Pick your county below for the department that handles your area and the steps to open.
115 counties in Missouri. 12 have a detailed permit page below. For any other county, check your ZIP and we will point you to the right health department.
Statewide rules in Missouri
In Missouri, retail food and mobile food unit permits are issued by local public health agencies; the Dept. of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) sets the statewide food code and provides oversight.
- Food & vending permits
- Missouri DHSS, retail food safety program (permits issued by local health agencies)Missouri local public health agency directory
- Sales tax rate
- 4.225% state base rateTypical combined range: 4.225%-12.238%Counties, cities, and special or transit districts add local sales tax on top, so your combined rate depends on your exact address.Missouri DOR sales/use tax rate information
- Food safety cards
- Missouri's food code requires a person in charge with demonstrated food safety knowledge; many local jurisdictions also require a Certified Food Safety Manager.
Official links, last verified July 14, 2026. Requirements vary by city and change over time.
Confirm the current steps and fees before you apply.