The final phase of permits comes after you hire your staff. Employees need health permits, and in some regions, managers need a ServSafe certification. First-time entrepreneurs may feel intimidated by the many legal requirements. For those in the U.S., your city will be the primary source of information and where you submit your applications. Creating a timeline for your license and permit applications can make planning things such as purchasing your equipment or hiring staff much easier. You can plan on waiting to apply for your health permit or food service license until after you find the right equipment for your cafe.