* Business license: This is a general license that allows you to operate a business in your city or county. You can usually obtain this from your local government office.
* Zoning permit: This permit ensures that your movie theater complies with the zoning regulations for your area. You can usually obtain this from your local zoning department.
* Building permit: This permit is required if you plan to build a new movie theater or renovate an existing one. You can usually obtain this from your local building department.
* Sign permit: This permit is required if you plan to display a sign for your movie theater. You can usually obtain this from your local sign department.
Industry-Specific Licenses and Permits
* Motion picture exhibition license: This license is required to exhibit motion pictures in your theater. You can usually obtain this from your state film board or commission.
* Copyright license: This license is required to show copyrighted films in your theater. You can usually obtain this from the copyright holder or their representative.
* Fire safety permit: This permit ensures your movie theater meets all fire safety regulations. You can obtain this from your local fire department.
* Health permit: This permit ensures that your movie theater meets all health and safety regulations. You can obtain this from your local health department.
* Food service license: If you plan on selling food and beverage items in your movie theater, you will need to obtain a permit. You can obtain more information about food service licenses from your state's department of health.
Insurance
* General liability insurance: This insurance protects your business from liability for accidents or injuries that occur on or around your premises, such as an audience member slipping and falling in your lobby.
* Property insurance: This insurance protects your facility from damage caused by covered perils, such as a storm or a vandalism attack.
* Equipment insurance: This insurance covers the audio, visual, and seating equipment in your theater against physical damage and theft.
* Business income insurance: This insurance makes sure you continue to receive income if your theater is closed due to a covered peril.
Other Considerations
In addition to the above, you may also need to obtain licenses and permits for:
* Alcohol sales: If you plan to serve alcohol in your theater, you will need to obtain a liquor license.
* Live performances: If you plan to host live performances in your theater, you may need to obtain a permit from your local government office.
* Special events: If you plan to hold special events in your theater, such as private parties or corporate events, you may need to obtain a special event permit.