Zoning and Permits
Before applying for a business license, first verify that the type of business and its physical location comply with local zoning regulations. Zoning laws vary significantly throughout the state. Although no fee is required to verify zoning compliance, you may have to pay a permit application fee to change zoning status.
- Generally, zoning approval is a one-time occurrence.
- If the proposed business site does not align with zoning regulations, you must apply for a permit to change the current zoning.
- Home-based businesses must apply for a home occupation permit. Certain limitations apply.
- If you plan to build a new building or to alter an existing building, apply for a building permit.
- Signage for your business may require a sign permit.
Business License
After verifying zoning compliance, the next step is to apply for a business license, also known as a privilege license. Some cities and counties do not issue business licenses. The application fee for obtaining a business license can vary from $50 to more than $1,000, depending on the type of business and amount and kind of inventory.
- Generally, business licenses are renewed annually.
- Apply for a business license in the city in which the business is physically located. If the business is located outside of the city limits, contact the county clerk’s office.
- Businesses located outside the city limits may still need a business license to operate within the city limits.
- Depending on the type of business, additional licenses and fees may be required.
Business Name
The county clerk’s office will conduct a complimentary name search for the business.
Sole proprietors and general partnerships operating a business under a fictitious or assumed name must apply for a Doing Business As (DBA) certificate with the county in which the business is physically located. A DBA does not protect or reserve a business name.
- The county clerk typically issues the DBA for sole proprietors.
- Any other proprietorship must be filed with the Secretary of State and then filed with the county.
- A business name change, ownership change, or closure will require filing an amendment at this office.