Licenses depend on what you do and where, and state, county and city licenses are usually separate. Record the issuing agency, fee and renewal date for each one. Before signing a lease or working from home, confirm with the zoning office that your use is allowed. Rules vary by state and city, so confirm requirements with the official agency.
Which licenses might apply to my business?
It depends on what you do and where. Common categories: general business license or local business tax, professional or trade licenses, health permits, sales tax registration and signage or zoning permits. Write each license on your renewal list with its agency, fee and renewal date as you find it.
Which agency issues each permit?
Each permit has an issuing agency: state licensing boards, the state revenue department, county health, city zoning or building. Record the agency, form, fee and renewal for each one. If agencies give conflicting answers, ask for the answer in writing or note the name and date of the person you spoke with.
Are state and city licenses separate?
Often yes. A state license does not usually replace a city or county business tax receipt, and the reverse is also true. Check each level. Some counties and cities also issue separate receipts, so a business may need both. Ask each office directly.
Can I run this business from home?
Many businesses can, subject to local home occupation rules, HOA or lease terms, and industry rules (food prep and customer visits are common limits). Ask your city zoning office. Get the answer in writing if possible, especially for customer visits, signage and employees.
What zoning questions should I ask?
Is my use allowed at this address? Are customer visits, signage, parking, storage or employees limited? Do I need a certificate of use or occupancy? Are there home occupation rules? Ask these before signing a lease or buying equipment, since the answers can change what is possible at that address.
What should I check before signing a lease?
Confirm zoning allows your use, the total cost including maintenance and pass-throughs, the term and renewal, build-out responsibilities, signage, insurance requirements and exit terms. Have it reviewed before signing. Ask for a copy of the certificate of occupancy and confirm whether any prior use affects what you can do in the space.
Common questions
Which licenses might apply to my business?
It depends on what you do and where. Common categories: general business license or local business tax, professional or trade licenses, health permits, sales tax registration and signage or zoning permits.
Which agency issues each permit?
Each permit has an issuing agency: state licensing boards, the state revenue department, county health, city zoning or building. Record the agency, form, fee and renewal for each one.
Are state and city licenses separate?
Often yes. A state license does not usually replace a city or county business tax receipt, and the reverse is also true. Check each level.
Sources
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.
Get your website-ready checklist, then see starter options
Fill in the free website-ready checklist while you set up. When you are ready, starter websites begin at $399 with your domain included. Start with the free checklist.
See starter website options