DOH Food Service License for Bars & Lounges That Serve No Food: Miami restaurant guide
Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County — Environmental Health
What it is
A bar that serves only drinks (plus ice, garnishes and packaged snacks, but no time/temperature-controlled food) is licensed and inspected by the Department of Health, not DBPR. Section 381.0072 lists 'bars and lounges' among DOH food service establishments.
When a restaurant needs it
Bar-only concepts with no kitchen. Add any prepared food and you move to DBPR's food service license instead.
How to apply
File DOH form DH 4086 (Food Service Facility Application) with DOH-Miami-Dade Environmental Health (and DH 8003 plan review for a new build-out), pass the sanitation inspection, and pay the annual fee.
Documents you’ll need
- DH 4086 Food Service Facility Application
- DH 8003 Plan Review Application (new or remodeled space)
- Floor plan showing bar sinks, hand sink and ice handling
- Certified food protection manager designation
Good to know
DOH-licensed bars must still designate a certified food protection manager. A 4COP bar that later adds a kitchen needs a DBPR license and plan review.
Official source
DOH-Miami-Dade — Food Hygiene program (bars and lounges) · Section 381.0072, F.S. — DOH food service establishments
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.