How to prepare to open a restaurant in Puerto Rico

Start with your location and planned activities. A café, bakery or restaurant may follow different steps depending on its premises, municipality, alcohol sales and proposed construction.

1. 1

   Verify the proposed use of your space

   Before committing to a location, ask the permitting office to confirm the proposed restaurant use and which existing approvals cover it.

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2. 2

   Review the Permiso Único pathway

   Confirm the operating licenses and certifications applicable to your food business, including sanitary and fire-safety review.

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3. 3

   Prepare your Hacienda registration

   Review the Registro de Comerciante and the tax responsibilities associated with your planned activities.

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Are restaurant permits the same in every municipality?

Do not assume the same process applies everywhere. Confirm municipal registration, the proposed use of the space and the office responsible for your location before committing to a lease or construction.

Does this checklist approve my restaurant?

No. This is a preliminary preparation tool, not a permit, legal determination or guarantee of approval. Confirm requirements with the responsible agencies. Complete the five questions above to see which preparation topics match your plans.