Houston businesses complete the Texas state steps (Secretary of State, Comptroller, occupational licensing) and then the local ones through the Houston Permitting Center, which handles building, occupancy, sign and many business permits. Sole proprietors using an assumed name generally file with the Harris County Clerk. Food businesses should check Houston Health Department and Texas DSHS rules, including the mobile food change on July 1, 2026.
Houston checklist
| Step | Where |
|---|---|
| State registration and permits | See the Texas guide |
| Building, occupancy and sign permits | Houston Permitting Center |
| Assumed name (sole proprietor or partnership) | Harris County Clerk |
| Food establishments | Houston Health Department |
| Mobile food vendors | Texas DSHS (from July 1, 2026) |
Questions to ask
- Is my address inside the City of Houston or in another city or unincorporated Harris County?
- Which permits apply to my use and space?
- What inspections are required?
Worked example
Tanya opens a home-based bookkeeping business in Houston. Operating under her own name with a DBA, she files the assumed name certificate with the Harris County Clerk, gets an EIN and checks with the Comptroller about any tax registrations. She confirms with the city whether a home office for her type of work needs any permits, since clients won't visit. Her Google profile is set as a service-area business without showing her home address.
No zoning in Houston, but rules still apply
Houston is known for not having traditional zoning, but deed restrictions, building codes, occupancy permits and other regulations still apply. Check deed restrictions for your address and the Houston Permitting Center for permits.
Getting found by Houston customers
Houston is large and spread out, so customers often search with neighborhood names. Define a realistic service area, list it on your website and Google profile, and show work from those neighborhoods. Accurate hours and quick replies matter in a market with many competitors.
Common questions
Is this legal advice?
No. It is a research checklist with official agencies. Confirm requirements, fees and timelines with each office.
How often is this checked?
Sources were checked on October 6, 2026. Rules change, so verify before you file.
Do I need a certificate of occupancy in Houston?
Commercial spaces commonly need one; ask the Houston Permitting Center for your use and address.
Where do I file a DBA in Harris County?
With the Harris County Clerk for sole proprietors and partnerships.
Should I have separate pages for Houston neighborhoods?
Only if you have real local content for each; otherwise list neighborhoods on a service area page.
Does Houston require a business license?
Houston does not have a general business license, but specific permits apply depending on the business; check the Houston Permitting Center.
Sources
- Houston Permitting Center
- Houston Health Department: Mobile food units
- Texas DSHS: Mobile food vendors
- Texas Secretary of State: Business organizations
- Texas Comptroller: Sales and use tax
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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