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Mobile Bar Business Licenses and Permits Needed in North Dakota: How to Start a Mobile Bar Business

Jim McCormickAuthor

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Opening a Mobile Bar in North Dakota

As consumer tastes evolve, new and innovative dining options like food trucks have gained immense popularity. Over the past five years, the food truck industry has grown rapidly, achieving an impressive compound annual growth rate of 10.3%, with industry revenues projected to hit $2.4 billion by year end 2024. This growth reflects the shift towards unique, gourmet experiences that are affordable and convenient—an appeal that has reshaped urban dining landscapes in cities such as Portland, LA, and Austin.

Given the parallels in their business models, mobile bars could follow a similar trajectory. Like food trucks, mobile bars offer flexibility, lower overhead costs compared to traditional venues, and the ability to provide specialty drinks and experiences at events, festivals, and even private gatherings. As the demand for customized, high-quality dining and drinking experiences grows, mobile bars are positioned to become an innovative solution embraced by both consumers and cities alike.

Opening a mobile bar offers entrepreneurs a flexible, cost-effective way to tap into the growing demand for on-the-go, experiential dining. With lower upfront investment and operating costs than traditional bars, mobile bars can serve a wide range of events like weddings, festivals, and corporate gatherings. Their mobility allows owners to reach diverse customer bases, test new markets, and adapt to demand easily. As consumers increasingly seek personalized, creative drinking experiences—especially with craft cocktails and local brews—mobile bars are perfectly positioned to meet this trend, offering a unique and memorable alternative to conventional venues.

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How to Open a Mobile Bar Business in North Dakota

To ensure that the process of opening your bar is an efficient as possible we recommend you follow this sequence of steps.

  1. Create your bar business plan
  2. Find your food truck or where you will operate
  3. Create your bar menu
  4. Order your bar equipment
  5. Determine your suppliers, cost structure and pricing
  6. Decide on the design and atmosphere
  7. Obtain all necessary licenses and permits to operate your bar, in local compliance
  8. Select your restaurant technology options, point of sale in particular

For the last step, every mobile bar license and permit is unique and has its own application process. And each one takes varying amounts of time to secure, so in the process of opening your bar you’ll want to leave plenty of time to get the proper licenses and permits in place. 

To simplify the licensing process we have created this guide to cover all the mobile bar licenses and permits you’ll need in North Dakota.

Do you need a liquor license for a mobile bar?

Whether or not a mobile bar requires a liquor license depends on the regulations and laws of the specific location where the business operates. In many countries and states, serving alcoholic beverages typically necessitates obtaining a liquor license, regardless of whether the establishment is stationary or mobile. 

The requirements and application process for obtaining a liquor license can vary widely from one jurisdiction to another. To determine the exact regulations and licensing requirements for a mobile bar, it is essential to research and consult the relevant local authorities and liquor control boards in the region of operation.

Licenses and Permits Required to Open a Mobile Bar in North Dakota

  1. Business License 
  2. Certificate of Occupancy 
  3. Food Handler’s License, also known as Food Service License 
  4. Seller’s Permit 
  5. Liquor License Permit
  6. Mobile Food Facility Permit
  7. Public Health Permit

1. Business License in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

A business license is one of the first licenses you’ll need as you start laying the groundwork of your business. Also known as a business tax certificate, it helps your business stay compliant at tax season.

How to get a business license in North Dakota

In North Dakota, business licenses are controlled by the city or county you live in. If you operate a restaurant with multiple locations across cities and counties, it’s important to get a business license for each business in different jurisdictions. To get a business license in North Dakota, you’ll need:

  1. An EIN
  2. To choose what classification of business you’ll be (LLC? Sole proprietorship? Partnership?)
  3. A business name
  4. An address and phone number,
  5. A thorough restaurant business plan
  6. A COI for your business insurance policy

How much does a business license cost in North Dakota?

North Dakota business license costs vary depending the county, type and scope of the business. Business licenses in North Dakota need to be renewed and paid for regularly, so check with your jurisdiction about how often yours will need to be renewed.

License Name

Cost

Link

Business License

Varies depending on county

North Dakota New Business Registration

2. Certificate of Occupancy in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

A certificate of occupancy is a document that shows your space is zoned for your type of business, as well as up to code, safe to use, and up to date on its checks and inspections. Not every county will require them for new businesses, and even then, only certain situations require them, including if you’re doing major building work or changing the use of a space from residential to business.

Always get in touch with your local jurisdiction to determine if your project warrants a CoO.

How to get a certificate of occupancy license?

The forms are online, but in order to get the certificate, your business location will need to go through fire inspections, plumbing inspections, electrical inspections, and building inspections. Check your local city or county’s building and safety department.

How much does a certificate of occupancy cost?

Different counties will charge different amounts, and they will also vary by type of business. Fee will vary depending on county.


License Name

Cost

Link

Certificate of Occupancy

Fees will vary depending on county

Check your local city or county’s small business department

3. Food Handler’s License in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

A food service license, also known as an employee health permit, allows restaurants, vendors, or any other type of food business to safely sell and serve food onsite. These licenses ensure that every employee knows how to do their part to keep your diners safe from foodborne illness. They’re often referred to as ServSafe, after the company that administers most food handler’s tests, or as a North Dakota Food Handler Card.

How to get a food handler’s license in North Dakota

Every employee who prepares or serves food in North Dakota must get their Food Handler’s license within 30 days of being hired — chefs, cooks, servers, baristas, and bartenders, to name a few. Bussers and general managers may not be required to do so. 

And if managers have already gotten their Food Protection Manager Certification, they’re also exempt from getting a North Dakota Food Handler card. Some jurisdictions have their own food safety training programs and standards, so they’re exempt from requiring employees to get a North Dakota Food Handler card.

To get their food handler’s card, employees must pass a test about food safety and preparation with a grade of at least 70% (or higher in some jurisdictions).

How much does a food service license cost in North Dakota?

North Dakota state law requires that the test and license not cost more than $15, in order to make sure anyone working in a restaurant can afford to get certified.


License Name

Cost

Link

Food Handler's License

Up to $15 per employee

North Dakota Food Handler Training

4. Food Seller’s Permit in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

Any business that plans to sell tangible goods that are subject to sales tax needs a seller’s permit. This permit allows them to charge sales tax.

How to get a seller’s permit?

You can register for a permit online through the SBA License and Permits portal.

How much does a food seller’s license cost?

There’s no fee to apply for a seller’s permit, but you may be asked to pay a security deposit to cover unpaid taxes if the business eventually closes.


License Name

Cost

Link

Seller's Permit

$0 (but a security deposit may be requested

SBA Licenses and Permits

5. Mobile Liquor License in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

This license is required for any type of business to sell and serve alcohol to its patrons. Since alcohol has an incredibly high markup and a long shelf life, it’s often beneficial from a profit standpoint to sell alcohol.

How to get a liquor license in North Dakota

In North Dakota, liquor licenses are issued by the state. You must have a seller’s permit already to be able to apply for a liquor license. 

After you’ve applied for a liquor license, you must post a public notice of application on your business’s premises for 30 days. Some cases require the applicant to notify their neighbors or post a notice in the newspaper. They will also need to show that their business is correctly zoned for an alcohol-selling business. 

The department does an investigation into the future business and the applicant to see if they qualify. It takes between 30 and 90 days to process a liquor license application, depending on what kind of application it is, so be sure to build this time frame into your countdown to opening. Licenses are renewed on a yearly basis, so you must pay the renewal fee on time or your license will expire until the fee is paid. 

How much does a liquor license cost in North Dakota?

A liquor license in North Dakota can cost from $335 - $1000. See the full fees associated with different types of liquor licenses in North Dakota here.


License Name

Cost

Link

Liquor License

$335 - $1000

Liquor Permits & Licenses

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6. Mobile Food Facility Permit in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

A mobile food facility permit ensures that the space where you plan to prepare and/or serve food is compliant with local food safety and worker safety standards. You cannot operate a food truck, food cart, or any other kind of mobile food business without one.

How do you get a mobile food facility permit license?

Different counties will dictate the factors that need to be considered, including what types of foods are prepared on the truck vs. at an offsite prep kitchen, what types of foods are sold (and how high-risk they are in terms of potential to cause food-borne illness), what kind of cooking will be done on the truck (Deep frying? Griddle only? Microwaving?), and how much preparation will need to be done at all (very little for ice cream vs. a lot for burritos).

In order to be approved, a mobile food facility will need to be able to show they are creating a safe and nonhazardous work environment for their workers, providing safe food for their customers, and following safe protocols for disposal of grease and other waste.

How much does a mobile food facility permit cost?

The cost of a mobile food facility permit will vary across cities and counties, and even within a city depending on the type of food truck operation. 

License NameCostLink

Mobile Food Facility

Varies depending on county within the state

North Dakota Health & Human Services

7. Public Health Permit in North Dakota

What is it and why do you need it?

In most counties, food trucks will need to fill out a Public Health Permit/License application as food vendors, or risk being shut down for not being up to the North Dakota Health and Safety Code. 

How do you get a public health permit/license?

Fill out the application from your local public health department, prepare your facility for inspection, and review all food safety requirements. Once you’ve passed inspection, you can obtain your public health permit.

How much does a public health license cost?

It depends on your risk level — selling prepackaged food is cheaper, and less risky, than preparing meats and other foods on your premises. These license costs vary by county and can range from $100 to over $1,000. 

License NameCostLink

Public Health Permit/License

Around $100 - $1,000+

Will require application to your local public health department

How to Get a Liquor License in North Dakota

Securing a liquor license is a critical step for any restaurant that plans to serve alcohol, but the process can be complex, with varying rules and procedures depending on your location. Here’s a guide to help you understand each phase and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Research Local and State Requirements

The first step is to research the specific liquor licensing laws in your state, county, and city. Each jurisdiction has its own set of rules, and knowing these upfront will save you time and help you avoid delays. Start by visiting the website of your state’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) board or your local licensing authority. Key areas to focus on include:

  • Types of licenses available (beer and wine, full liquor, on-sale, off-sale)

  • Zoning restrictions that may limit alcohol sales in certain areas

  • Quota systems, which some cities use to cap the number of available licenses

  • Dry zones or neighborhoods with restrictions on alcohol sales

If your location has a limit on the number of licenses, you may need to wait for one to become available or purchase one from an existing business, which can add complexity and cost to the process.

2. Identify the Appropriate Liquor License for Your Restaurant

Choosing the right license depends on the type of alcohol you plan to serve and how you will serve it. There are several different types of licenses, each with specific legal boundaries:

  • Beer and Wine License: Allows you to serve beer and wine but excludes spirits. This is often easier to obtain and less expensive.

  • Full Liquor License: Grants permission to sell beer, wine, and spirits. These licenses are typically more costly and regulated.

  • On-Sale License: For alcohol consumed on the premises. Most restaurants and bars need this type of license.

  • Off-Sale License: For alcohol sold to customers who will consume it off-site, such as liquor stores. Some restaurants with retail components may need both an on-sale and off-sale license.

Make sure you also consider your restaurant’s business model. For example, if you’re planning to offer delivery or catering, you may need an additional permit for off-premise alcohol sales.

3. Gather Necessary Documentation

The liquor license application process involves a significant amount of paperwork. Having all of your documents ready beforehand will make the process smoother. Commonly required documents include:

  • Proof of business ownership (such as Articles of Incorporation or an LLC agreement)

  • Lease or property ownership agreements, proving your restaurant has a legitimate address

  • A detailed floor plan of the restaurant, including areas where alcohol will be served and stored

  • Health and safety permits or certificates of inspection

  • Financial statements for the business, which may include tax returns or proof of capital

  • Background checks for owners, partners, and key employees, as many jurisdictions will want to verify that the individuals involved have clean criminal records and no history of alcohol-related offenses

Make sure every stakeholder involved in the restaurant, including investors, managers, and significant shareholders, has their paperwork in order, as many areas require background checks for everyone with a vested interest in the business.

4. Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed your research and gathered all necessary documentation, it’s time to submit the application to your local ABC board or the relevant municipal department. This part of the process can often be done online, but some areas still require paper applications. Double-check that the application is filled out completely and accurately—missing or incorrect information is a common reason for delays or rejections.

In some locations, you may be asked to submit additional forms, such as a fingerprinting card for background checks or personal history statements. Ensure that these are submitted along with the main application.

5. Pay Application Fees

The cost of a liquor license varies significantly depending on the type of license, the size of your restaurant, and your location. In some cities, you might pay a few hundred dollars, while in others, the fees can reach several thousand dollars. Additionally, there may be annual renewal fees to keep the license active.

In jurisdictions with a quota system, you may need to purchase an existing license from a current license holder if no new licenses are available. This can significantly increase the cost, as liquor licenses in high-demand areas can sometimes sell for six figures.

6. Wait for Approval

Approval times can vary dramatically based on your location, the type of license, and whether there are any objections to your application. While some areas may approve your application in a matter of weeks, others may take several months, especially if a hearing is required. Stay in regular contact with the licensing authority, and don’t be afraid to follow up if you experience delays.

7. Stay Compliant and Renew Your License

Once your license is approved, you’ll need to ensure strict compliance with local alcohol laws, including:

  • Age verification procedures to prevent serving minors

  • Hours of operation for alcohol service

  • Record-keeping requirements for alcohol sales

Many jurisdictions also require you to renew your liquor license annually. Be proactive about staying up to date with these requirements to avoid penalties or the risk of losing your license.

Mobile Bar Laws, Requirements and Regulations in North Dakota

In addition to all the above permits and licenses, mobile bars will need to comply with food safety ordinances, OSHA regulations, proper waste disposal regulations, driving regulations, public health laws, tax laws, regulations about temperature control for food (as well as for running water), parking regulations, drivers license laws, liquor laws, and many more. 

Get ready to bring your food to whenever your customers are

Opening a mobile bar is a process that takes many months. You’ll need to start with a thorough bar business plan, and then, one of the most important tasks to tackle early is the licenses and permits process. Some permits will require you to have a different permit ready to submit with your application, so use the state specific websites to determine exactly which permits your business needs. Map out the requirements for all of them, and go through them in cascading order.

Once your permits are in progress, you can move onto other tasks that will require your attention, including finding a great team, planning your pay structures, finding funding, figuring out your menu and testing recipes, and choosing ingredient vendors. 

Finally, you can compare your options for the best bar point of sale system. Ensure the platform you choose has capabilities that will help you grow sustainably for years to come, like online ordering (and order-ahead), email marketing to let your customers know where you’ll be and when, payroll, and inventory

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