Licenses and Permits for Retail Businesses Text Size:

If you're going to start or buy a small retail business then you'll most likely need a license to conduct business. Just about all businesses need a county or city license. There may be additional local, county, state and federal licensing requirements, depending on the type of retail business you select. The fees associated with getting a license are typically minimal, if any.

In addition to licenses, you'll probably need permits. What permits you'll need for your retail business really depends on the city, county and state where your business is located. Ask questions, starting with your city and county government. You may want to contact your local Chamber of Commerce or Small Business Development Center for guidance. After you check with your local government, contact the state and federal agencies that apply to your business.

Local Licenses and Permits

Your local licensing and permit requirements will vary. Also, you may need a zoning compliance permit before you can open for business. Make sure the space you own or lease is properly zoned for the specific type of business you select. Contact your township or municipality zoning inspector to learn about zoning restrictions. Also, if you're planning on remodeling your space then you may need a permit for that, so check the local building codes first.

Some of the most common local licenses and permits are:

• A business license is required of most every business, no matter how large or small
• Miscellaneous local permits may be required
• A police permit or clearance may be required if your business has an alarm that generates a police response when it goes off
• A food permit will be required if your business makes or sells food, so check with your city or county health department to determine if your business requires a special health permit or inspection
• Building permits, fire certificates and zoning permits may be required

State Licenses and Permits

There are certain businesses and professions that require a state license. Your state may require you to have special licenses if you sell certain products such as firearms, gasoline, liquor, lottery tickets and so forth. You can check with your local and state government to see if your business will require any special licenses.

Some of the most common state licenses and permits include the following:

• A seller's permit is required if your business sells taxable products in a state that has sales tax
• A state occupational license is required for certain occupations

Federal Licenses and Permits

For a very small number of businesses, federal licensing is a requirement. In businesses that are highly regulated by the government, federal licensing is typically required. An example is selling firearms.

If you want to export goods to another country, your business will be subject to all kinds of federal regulation and you'll need a federal export license. Get more information on this from the Department of Commerce.

Where Do I Get a License?

The best place to start is your local city hall or courthouse. You can phone the city or county clerk's office with questions, or look in your local phone book under municipal government offices. You may also want to try an online search for your local city hall.

Posting a License or Permit

In most areas, a business owner must post a license or permit in a manner that is openly visible to the public. The posting requirements may differ depending on the type of business license or permit.

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