Overview
Louisiana's parish system creates unique vending regulations with requirements varying significantly across 64 parishes. Operators need state sales tax permits, parish occupational licenses, and health permits. All packaged food products require registration with the state.
Each parish has different requirements. Use geauxBIZ portal for customized checklists.
Business Registration
Business registration is required for vending operators in Louisiana.
Registration Agency
Louisiana Secretary of State →
Registration Types
- Business entity registration
- Trade name registration if different
Register through geauxBIZ portal for comprehensive business setup. Parish permits vary.
Sales Tax
Tax Application
- General sales tax applies to vending: Yes
- Food tax variation: Same as general
- Local rates possible: Yes
- Resale certificate required: No
- Filing frequency: monthly, quarterly, or annually
State rate 4.45% plus significant parish rates. Total rates vary widely by location.
Registration
Vending Operator License
Vending operator license is required in Louisiana.
License Name: Parish Occupational License
Issuing Authority: Parish government
Renewal: annual
Machine Registration
Machine registration is not required in Louisiana.
Health Permit & Food Code
Health permits are required for:
- Food vending operations
- Warehouse facilities
Agency: Louisiana Department of Health
Food Code: 2017 FDA Food Code
Inspections: Varies
Micro Markets
Micro markets are recognized in state code.
Permit required: Yes
Specific Requirements
- Warehouse permit required
- Product registration required
Product Restrictions
Restricted Products
- Alcohol: Prohibited in vending machines
- Tobacco: Special tax and permit requirements
- CBD/Hemp: Follow Louisiana CBD regulations
- Age Verification: Must comply with placement restrictions
Placement Rules
Schools
Check parish and district policies
Public Buildings
Allowed with proper permits
Private Property
Property owner permission required
ADA & Accessibility
Must meet ADA requirements
Electrical & Fire Code
Follow local codes
Local Permits
Louisiana has home rule, meaning local jurisdictions can impose additional requirements.
Typical Local Requirements
- Parish occupational license
- Parish health permits
Example Localities
New Orleans
Occupational license based on gross receipts required
Penalties & Enforcement
Common Violations
- Operating without parish license
- Unregistered food products
Penalties
- $500-2,000 plus closure
- $200-1,000 per product
Key Contacts
Louisiana Department of Revenue
Phone: (855) 307-3893
Louisiana Department of Health
Phone: (225) 342-7522
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the parish system affect vending permits?
Each of Louisiana's 64 parishes may have different requirements. Check with each parish.
What is geauxBIZ?
Louisiana's one-stop portal for business registration and customized requirement checklists.
Do all food products need registration?
Yes, all packaged food products sold in Louisiana must be registered with the state.
What are warehouse permit costs?
Food distribution warehouse permits are $300 per fiscal year flat rate.
How do sales tax rates vary?
State rate is 4.45% plus varying parish rates, creating significant total rate differences.
What are New Orleans requirements?
New Orleans requires occupational license, certificate of occupancy, and parish permits.