Restaurant Permits & Licenses in Casper, WY

Complete guide to permits and licenses required to start a restaurant in Casper, WY. Fees, renewal cycles, and agency contacts.

Wyoming LLC Articles of Organization Filing

Wyoming Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all LLC formation in Wyoming. Annual report required separately.

Wyoming LLC Annual Report

Wyoming Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $60.00-$60.00
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

Applies to ALL Wyoming LLCs regardless of business type.

Assumed Name (DBA) Registration

Wyoming Secretary of State
May Apply
Fee: $60.00-$60.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required if using trade name. Renews annually with same fee schedule as annual report.

Wyoming Food Service Establishment Permit

Wyoming Department of Health
Required
Fee: $215.00-$215.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required for ALL restaurants/food service establishments. Plan review required pre-opening ($200+).

Wyoming Sales and Use Tax License

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Restaurants must collect 4% state sales tax + local resort/food taxes. Renews automatically unless changes.

Wyoming Department of Agriculture Food Service Inspection Registration

Wyoming Department of Agriculture
Required
Fee: $35.00-$35.00
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

Complements DEH permit; required for food handling compliance. Inspected by WDA inspectors.

Wyoming Liquor License (On-premises Retailer's License)

Wyoming Department of Revenue - Liquor Division
May Apply
Fee: $1000.00-$1000.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Quota-based by county; restaurants qualify for "Restaurant License" (51% food sales requirement).

Wyoming State Sales and Use Tax Permit

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Restaurants in Wyoming must collect and remit sales tax on all taxable sales. The state sales tax rate is 4%; local taxes may add up to an additional 3%, depending on jurisdiction. Registration is mandatory for all businesses making taxable sales.

Employer Withholding Tax Registration

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Employers must withhold Wyoming income tax from employee wages if they are Wyoming residents or earn income in Wyoming. Filing frequency (monthly or quarterly) depends on the amount of tax withheld.

Unemployment Insurance Tax (UI)

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
May Apply
Fee: $29500.00-$29500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All employers with one or more employees must register. New employers pay a standard rate for the first three years, after which rates are experience-rated. Employers must file quarterly wage reports and pay unemployment taxes.

Wyoming State Business License (Optional – Local Jurisdiction Required)

Wyoming Secretary of State
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$400.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Wyoming does not require a general state business license, but many municipalities (e.g., Cheyenne, Casper, Jackson) require a local business license or privilege tax for restaurants. Fees and requirements vary by location. Contact local city clerk or county assessor.

Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all LLCs and businesses with employees. Must be obtained before state tax registrations. Apply online via IRS website.

Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) Registration

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $7000.00-$7000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

FUTA is a federal tax; most employers pay only 0.6% effective rate due to credit for state unemployment tax payments. Form 940 is filed annually.

Wyoming Gross Receipts Tax (Not Applicable)

Wyoming Department of Revenue
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Wyoming does not impose a general gross receipts tax or franchise tax on LLCs. Businesses are not subject to corporate income tax or LLC franchise tax. This is not a requirement for restaurants in Wyoming.

Local Option Sales Tax Compliance

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Restaurants must collect local sales tax in addition to state tax where applicable. Rates vary by jurisdiction (e.g., Teton County adds up to 3%). Registration is automatic through state sales tax permit. Verify local rates via WY DOR website.

Federal Income Tax Filing (LLC)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Single-member LLCs report income on owner’s personal return (Schedule C). Multi-member LLCs file as partnership (Form 1065). No federal tax at entity level unless elected as corporation.

Wyoming State Income Tax Filing (Pass-Through)

Wyoming Department of Revenue
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Wyoming does not impose individual or corporate income tax. Business owners do not pay state income tax on pass-through income from the LLC. This is not a compliance requirement.

DOL Wage and Hour Compliance (Fair Labor Standards Act)

Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires payment of federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour), overtime (1.5x regular rate for hours over 40/week), and proper tip credit compliance (if claiming tip credit, must pay $2.13/hour minimum and ensure tips bring total to at least $7.25). Applies to cooks, servers, dishwashers, etc.

DOL Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Compliance

Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires eligible employees (12 months, 1,250 hours) to receive up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave annually for qualifying reasons (birth, serious health condition, military caregiver). Posting notice and recordkeeping required.

DOL Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) / USCIS
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Must complete Form I-9 to verify identity and work authorization. Employers must examine acceptable documents and retain forms for 3 years after hire or 1 year after employment ends, whichever is later.

FDA Food Code Compliance (through Retail Food Program)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

FDA issues the Food Code as guidance; states adopt it into law. Covers food safety practices: handwashing, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, employee illness policies. Required for passing health inspections.

Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) Permit for Alcohol Sales

Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)
May Apply
Fee: $1000.00-$1000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Required under the Federal Alcohol Administration Act. Most restaurants that serve alcohol but do not manufacture it may not need a federal permit but must comply with state liquor laws. However, if brewing beer on-site, a Brewer's Notice (Form 5110.17) and federal permit are required.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance for Wi-Fi and Communications

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires use of FCC-certified equipment. If offering public Wi-Fi, must comply with Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) if targeting children. No license required for standard Wi-Fi use.

Annual Report Filing for LLC

Wyoming Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $60.00-$60.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

LLCs in Wyoming must file an annual report each year on the first day of the anniversary month of the business's formation. The report can be filed online through the SOS portal. Fee is $60 as of 2024.

Wyoming Business License Renewal

Wyoming Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $60.00-$60.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

All businesses operating in Wyoming must maintain a current business license. This is filed through the Secretary of State and renewed annually. The fee is $60 per year.

Sales and Use Tax License Renewal

Wyoming Department of Revenue
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Sales tax license does not expire but must remain active. Businesses must renew registration if there are changes. Restaurants must collect and remit sales tax on taxable sales. Wyoming sales tax rate is 4%; local taxes may apply.

Food Handler Permit Renewal

Local Public Health Department (varies by county)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Food service employees may be required to obtain food handler permits depending on local health department rules. Some counties require renewal every 1–3 years. Check with local health authority (e.g., Laramie County Health Department).

Local Tourism or Lodging Tax

Varies by municipality
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Some tourist-heavy areas (e.g., Teton County, Sheridan) may impose additional local taxes on food and beverage sales. Contact local finance office to confirm obligations.

City of Cheyenne Business License

City of Cheyenne, WY
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required for all businesses including restaurants; fee based on type/location per Cheyenne Municipal Code Sec. 5.04

Laramie County Business License

Laramie County, WY
May Apply
Fee: $30.00-$30.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Applies to all businesses; restaurants specifically listed. Per Laramie County Ordinance 09-0003

Zoning Compliance Permit

City of Cheyenne Planning & Development
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Verify zoning district allows "eating establishment" per Cheyenne Land Development Code Chapter 17.28

Laramie County Zoning Permit

Laramie County Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $250.00-$250.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Restaurants require Special Use Permit in AG/RU zones per Laramie County Zoning Resolution Sec. 4.3

Building Permit

City of Cheyenne Planning & Development
May Apply
Fee: $0.50-$2.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for interior tenant improvements per International Building Code (2021 edition) as locally adopted

Sign Permit

City of Cheyenne Planning & Development
May Apply
Fee: $75.00-$75.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Max 1.5 sq ft per linear ft of building frontage per LDC 17.52

Laramie County Health Department Food Service Permit

Laramie County Health Department
May Apply
Fee: $250.00-$250.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Plan review required 30 days prior. Per Wyoming Food Service Rule Chapter 8

Fire Sprinkler and Alarm Permit

City of Cheyenne Fire Prevention Bureau
May Apply
Fee: $150.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required per IFC 2018 Sec. 901/903. Annual inspection $100

Certificate of Occupancy

Local Building/Fire Department
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires passed building, fire, health inspections per IBC 110.3

Grease Interceptor Permit

City of Cheyenne Utilities
May Apply
Fee: $300.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for FOG control per City Ordinance 3.08. Annual maintenance records required

Fire Inspection Certificate

Laramie County Fire District (unincorporated)
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Kitchen hood systems require monthly cleaning certification

Workers' Compensation Insurance

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services - Workers' Compensation Division
May Apply
Fee: $1500.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Required for all employers with one or more employees, full-time or part-time, including corporate officers. Sole proprietors and partners may opt out unless working on public works projects. Exemption available for agricultural workers under certain conditions.

General Liability Insurance

None (not state-mandated)
Required
Fee: $500.00-$1200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not legally required by the state of Wyoming, but strongly recommended and often required by landlords, lenders, or third parties. Covers slip-and-fall accidents, property damage, and other third-party claims.

Commercial Auto Insurance

Wyoming Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Services
May Apply
Fee: $1500.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Required for any vehicle registered under the business. Minimum liability limits: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, $20,000 property damage (25/50/20). Applies to all businesses operating vehicles in Wyoming.

Liquor Liability Insurance

Wyoming Department of Revenue - Liquor Division
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Required as a condition of obtaining and maintaining a liquor license in Wyoming. Often referred to as a "liquor liability endorsement" to a general liability policy. Not a standalone state mandate but enforced through licensing conditions.

Surety Bond (Liquor License Bond)

Wyoming Department of Revenue - Liquor Division
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

A surety bond of $1,000 to $10,000 (depending on license type) is required for most liquor licenses. This is a license bond guaranteeing compliance with state alcohol laws. Form AL-104 must be submitted.

Product Liability Insurance

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Required
Fee: $1000.00-$2500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not mandated by Wyoming law. However, it is a component of general liability coverage and highly recommended for restaurants serving food. Covers claims related to foodborne illness or contamination.

Professional Liability / Errors and Omissions Insurance

None
Required
Fee: $700.00-$1500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not required by Wyoming law for restaurants. Typically relevant for professional service providers (e.g., consultants, lawyers). Not applicable to standard restaurant operations unless offering advisory services.

Health Department Inspection

Wyoming Department of Health
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Restaurants are subject to routine health inspections by local health departments. Frequency depends on risk level and past compliance. Inspections cover food storage, hygiene, pest control, and sanitation.

Fire Safety Inspection

Local Fire Department
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Restaurants must pass fire safety inspections covering exits, fire extinguishers, suppression systems (hoods), and flammable storage. Frequency and requirements vary by municipality.

Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) Reporting

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: annual
Type: filing

EIN is one-time, but businesses with employees must file quarterly (Form 941) and annual (Form 940) federal tax returns. EIN remains valid indefinitely.

Wyoming Unemployment Insurance Tax Filing

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
May Apply
Fee: $29200.00-$29200.00
Renewal: varies
Type: filing

Employers must file Form UI-10 each quarter and pay unemployment insurance tax. New employers pay 2.0% on first $29,800 of wages per employee (as of 2024).

Wyoming Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

All employers with employees in Wyoming must carry workers’ compensation insurance. Coverage must be continuous. Premiums are paid annually or through installments based on payroll estimates.

Federal Income Tax Return (Form 1120-S or 1065)

Internal Revenue Service
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

LLCs taxed as S-corps must file Form 1120-S by March 15. Partnerships file Form 1065 by April 15. Single-member LLCs may report on Schedule C of owner’s 1040.

Estimated Federal Income Tax Payments

Internal Revenue Service
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Self-employed owners must make quarterly estimated tax payments if they expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal taxes. Due dates are April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.

Wyoming Annual Business Tax Filing

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Wyoming does not have a corporate income tax, but businesses may be subject to the $50 minimum annual license tax. This applies to all corporations and LLCs taxed as corporations. Sole proprietors and partnerships generally exempt.

Obtain Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Even single-member LLCs without employees may need an EIN to open a business bank account. Application is free via IRS Form SS-4.

Federal Income and Self-Employment Tax Filing (LLC Tax Obligations)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $160200.00-$160200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Single-member LLCs are disregarded entities by default and report income on Schedule C. Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships unless they elect corporate status. Estimated quarterly tax payments may be required if tax liability exceeds $1,000 annually.

OSHA Workplace Safety Compliance

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards. Specific restaurant-related risks include slips, cuts, burns, and ergonomic issues. Employers must display OSHA poster (Form 2203), report fatalities or hospitalizations, and maintain injury logs (Form 300) if over 10 employees.

ADA Title III Compliance (Public Accommodations)

Department of Justice (DOJ)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires accessible entrances, restrooms, seating, counters, and menus. Applies to physical access and policies (e.g., service animal policies). New construction or alterations must comply with 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

EPA Compliance for Commercial Food Establishments (Grease Traps, Waste Disposal)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Restaurants must prevent grease, oil, and solids from entering sewers. May be required to install and maintain grease traps/interceptors and comply with local Pretreatment Program rules under the Clean Water Act. EPA does not issue permits directly but enforces through state/local agencies.

FTC Compliance with Advertising and Consumer Protection Laws

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Prohibits deceptive or misleading advertising (e.g., false claims about food sourcing, portion sizes, or pricing). Applies to menus, websites, and social media. "Made in America" or "organic" claims must meet FTC and USDA standards. Restaurants must honor advertised discounts and promotions.

Wyoming Liquor License Renewal

Wyoming Department of Revenue – Liquor Division
May Apply
Fee: $400.00-$1000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Liquor licenses must be renewed annually by July 1. Fee depends on license class (e.g., on-premises full bar, beer/wine only). Background checks and fees apply.

Local Zoning and Business Permit Renewal

Local City or County Government (e.g., City of Cheyenne, Laramie County)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Cities and counties may require local business licenses or permits. Renewal deadlines and fees vary. For example, Cheyenne requires annual renewal of business permits.

Maintain Records of Sales and Employment Taxes

Wyoming Department of Revenue
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Businesses must keep records of sales, tax filings, payroll, and employee information for at least 4 years. Records must be available for audit.

Display Required Labor Law Posters

U.S. Department of Labor
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Employers must display federal posters including the Minimum Wage Law, EEO, OSHA, and FMLA. Posters must be visible to employees. Wyoming also requires state-specific notices.

Food Safety Certification (Manager Level)

Wyoming Department of Health
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

At least one employee must hold a valid food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe Manager). Certification must be renewed every 5 years. Required for compliance with FDA Food Code adopted by Wyoming.

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

  1. First, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service, which is free of charge.
  2. Next, register for Federal Income Tax with the IRS, as this is required for all businesses operating in Casper, Wyoming.
  3. Ensure your restaurant complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, with potential fees ranging from $200 to $5000.
  4. File for Federal Income and Self-Employment Tax with the IRS, understanding that the fee varies based on your income.
  5. Comply with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding truth-in-advertising and menu labeling requirements.
  6. Maintain thorough Recordkeeping for Tax Purposes as mandated by the IRS, which is essential for accurate filings.
  7. Register for Federal Income Tax Filing as an LLC with the IRS, which may require annual renewals.
  8. Adhere to FTC Compliance with Advertising and Consumer Protection rules to avoid potential penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming ADA compliance is optional for restaurants is incorrect, as it’s a federal requirement.
  • Failing to file Federal Income Tax can lead to significant penalties and legal issues.
  • Ignoring FTC advertising guidelines can result in fines and damage to your restaurant’s reputation.
  • Neglecting to obtain an EIN when employing staff is a common error that can cause tax complications.
  • Believing recordkeeping is unnecessary; the IRS requires detailed records for tax purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of ADA compliance?

ADA compliance fees can vary significantly, ranging from $200 to $5000 depending on the extent of modifications needed for your Casper restaurant to meet accessibility standards.

Is an EIN required even if I don't plan to hire employees immediately?

Yes, an EIN is still required if you operate as an LLC, even if you don't have employees, as it's your business's tax identification number with the IRS.

What does FTC compliance entail for a restaurant?

FTC compliance for restaurants involves truthful advertising, accurate menu labeling, and adherence to consumer protection laws to ensure fair business practices.

How often do I need to file Federal Income Tax as an LLC?

Federal Income Tax Filing for LLCs is generally an annual requirement, but the IRS may require estimated tax payments throughout the year depending on your income.

What kind of records should I keep for tax purposes?

You should keep records of all income and expenses, including receipts, invoices, and bank statements, to accurately file your taxes with the IRS and support any claims made.

Need a personalized checklist?

Permit Finder asks follow-up questions to give you an exact list of permits.

Find Your Permits