Civic Services Reference

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Guide | Business

Start a small business

Starting a business usually involves choosing a structure, registering the business, obtaining required licenses, and understanding tax responsibilities.

Topic: Business permitsAudience: Business owners

Plan before you apply

Describe the service or product, customers, costs, location, and staffing needs. A written business plan helps identify the permits and registrations that may apply.

Typical startup steps

Register the business name, obtain a tax identification number if needed, confirm zoning for the location, and apply for any profession-specific or activity-specific licenses.

A general business registration does not replace a food, construction, or occupancy permit.