Business Licenses and Permits

Regardless of where you operate your business (from home, online, a storefront, etc), all businesses must obtain all the necessary licenses and permits. Different types of businesses require their own specific permits and licenses, so having a clearly defined business plan and structure can be helpful through the permitting process.

 

Get started

The Small Business Administration offers a great resources to start understanding what permits and licenses you need for each level of government (city, county, state, national) depending on what kind of business you intend to run. Click here to search by county and business type.

 

Additionally, home-based businesses have their own set of requirements. To get started as a home-based business, check out this article.

 

Online businesses generally require all the same licenses and permits as brick and mortar businesses operating in that county.

 

Generally, many of these licenses and permits have fees and require filing paperwork in person. Allocating the right budget and time to this process can be helpful to staying on track as you prepare to launch your new business.

 

Having employees comes with its own requirements. Checking in with your state’s Labor Department can help you avoid any problems down the road.

 

Inspections

Some licenses and permits require passing inspection. Scheduling and completing these inspections can take more time than one might initially think. When budgeting and planning, consider giving yourself a cushion so that you can be flexible through the inspection process.

 

Ask for help

Your local SBDC is a great place to get help with understanding the permitting process. You can find your local SBDC by clicking here.