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Permits

Coffee and cart permits in Washington

To sell coffee in Washington, 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.

39 counties in Washington. 18 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 Washington

In Washington, food establishment permits are issued by your local health jurisdiction under the state Department of Health; you also need a state business license.

Food & vending permits
WA Dept. of Health, Food Safety ProgramFind your local health jurisdiction
Sales tax permit
Business license (with sales tax), WA Dept. of Revenue
Sales tax rate
6.5% state base rateTypical combined range: 6.5%-10.7%Counties, cities, and special or transit districts add local sales tax on top, so your combined rate depends on your exact address.Washington DOR tax rate lookup
Food safety cards
Washington Food Worker Card required for everyone who handles food.

Official links, last verified July 14, 2026. Requirements vary by city and change over time.
Confirm the current steps and fees before you apply.

Counties with a detailed permit guide in Washington