How to Open a Business

Opening a New Retail Food establishment

Depending on what you sell, Elbert County Public Health (ECPH) will determine what license you will receive. If you have questions about what you are permitted to sell, and what license you may need please contact our office at 303-621-3144

Complete the following for opening a new business

  • Obtain a Colorado Sales Tax License 
  • Complete the License Application (PDF)
  • Complete the Retail Food Plan Review Packet (PDF). ECPH will review your plans to make sure that the design and equipment in a facility are suitable for the safe storage, preparation, and service of the foods on the proposed menu. New construction and extensively remodeled food establishments or mobile food units that have never been licensed by Elbert County Health Department require the submission of a plan review application.
  • Pay the $100 Plan Review Fee
  • Schedule Pre-Site Inspection
  • Pay the Retail Food License Fee (determined based on the type of establishment)

Completed applications can be emailed to Public Health or dropped off at your local Public Health and Environmental office.

Opening a new Mobile Food establishment

If you are interested in opening a Mobile Food establishment or Food Truck, please visit our Mobile Food Page

Changes in ownership

Retail Food Establishment licenses are non-transferrable. Although a change of ownership does not require a Plan Review Application, a change to the Colorado sales tax number and/or change of ownership requires a new application for a Retail Food Establishment License. However, it may be useful to follow the plan review application requirements as a checklist to ensure you have everything in place. 

Complete the following for a change in ownership

Completed applications can be emailed to Public Health or dropped off at your local Public Health and Environmental office.