To establish and operate a new food service or retail food store in NH requires completion and submission of an application and detailed site plans for the new establishment.  The Food Protection Program will conduct an onsite inspection.  If the site is in full compliance of NH Administrative Rules for the sanitary production and distribution of food, a 90 day provisional license will be issued.  Within 45 days of issuance, another on-site inspection will be conducted and an annual license will  be issued, valid for a time period of one year from the date of issuance of the provisional license if all requirements continue to be met.  

All applicants for a new food service license must submit the following:

• A completed, legible Annual Food Service License Application  
• A check or money order for the applicable fees;  all fees are are nontransferable and nonrefundable.
• Food Establishment Site Plan with a $25 fee for each plan reviewed.
• Water system requirements 
• Wastewater system requirements
• All other information required for new establishments 

It is unlawful for any person, unless exempted under NH Statutes and Administrative Rules, to operate a food service establishment or retail food store within the state without a food service license.