Frozen Dessert Manufacturer Permit (retail): New York City restaurant guide

NYC DOHMH

What it is

An add-on DOHMH permit to make, freeze or store frozen desserts on premises — soft-serve, ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato.

When a restaurant needs it

An on-site soft-serve / ice cream / frozen-yogurt machine.

How to apply

Add it to your Food Service Establishment application in NYC Online Licensing (or file in person at the DCWP Licensing Center).

Documents you’ll need

Food Service Establishment permit application
Equipment info
Required Documents Checklist items

Fee

$25 for a food service establishment ($12.50 if fewer than 6 months remain on the permit term); mobile vendors $25 (May–Oct) or $12.50 (Nov–Apr)

Processing time

With the food permit

Renewal

Annually

Who files

Filed with the food permit by the owner or an authorized agent.

Good to know

Serving only pre-packaged frozen desserts made elsewhere may not need it — confirm with DOHMH if you're not making product on site.

Official source

NYC Business — frozen desserts (retail)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.