How to Start a Billiard Parlor

The 18 to 30 demographic is usually happy to spend money on a good night out. A billiard parlor, particularly one that provides a fun and friendly atmosphere, could be extremely lucrative. According to Entreprenuer.com, start-up costs may range from $10,000 to $50,000. However, if you have the right location and can offer great food and service at a reasonable price, you may be able to recoup your start-up fees in a year or two.

Instructions

1

Determine if you will sell alcohol in your billiard parlor. If you sell alcohol, you may be able to have patrons over the age of 18 but under 21, but there will be stricter rules than if your parlor is alcohol-free.

2

Consider offering a snack bar, caf or restaurant and a private room to rent out for parties, plus flat screen televisions, darts, foosball, shuffleboard, air hockey and an arcade.

3

Call your local health department about obtaining a food license, liquor license and sales tax permit. You may need to pay sewage fees.

4

Incorporate your business and obtain a federal tax identification number.

5

Find your locale. Look for high-traffic areas such as downtown, near apartments or condominiums or college campuses. You will need enough square footage for at least eight billiard tables, 10 to 20 arcade machines (if applicable), restrooms, 20 to 30 barstools around the room with the tables and 10 to 20 tables and chairs where customers can eat. Your kitchen will need drains, a work area, refrigerator, freezer, storage cabinets, dishwashing equipment, deep sinks, exhaust ventilation system, deep fryers, grills and ovens.

6

Purchase wholesale billiard tables, and your choice of shuffleboard ping-pong, air hockey and foosball tables. Purchase billiard table accessories such as triangles, cues, felt, lights, covers and balls. Purchase bar stools and pub tables. For your kitchen purchase liquor pourers, condiment holders, serving trays, ash trays, fryer baskets, blenders, slicers, refrigeration, soup warms, sinks, plumbing and preparation tables. You'll also need soap dispensers for the bathroom and kitchen and other janitorial supplies (See Resources).

7

Purchase business insurance, including general liability (at least $300,000), and workers' compensation insurance. General liability protects you from lawsuits due to injuries and accidents on your property. Workers' compensation provides for any employees who incur work-related injuries (See Resources).

8

Hire employees who are upbeat, friendly and professional. Advertise at your location, on Craiglist.com and in newspapers.