ained from your local firehouse. These types of permits are needed for any business that will be attracting large number of people/crowds (i.e. nightclubs, bars, restaurants).
Special State-issued Business Licenses:
Along with all of the permits mentioned above, there are dozens of other state-level licenses that must be obtained for various fields. Some areas where you would need special state-issued business licenses include:
-Air and Water Pollution Control Permit
Special State-issued Occupational/Professional License:
There are also some special state-issued licenses that many professions require. Some include:
-Real Estate Sales
- CO - https://www.colorado.gov/dora/boards_programs
Special Federal Business License or Permit:
-Investment Advising (SEC)
-Drug Manufacturing (FDA)
-Preparation of Meat Products (FDA)
-Ground Transportation (DoT)
-Manufacturing Tobacco, Alcohol, or Firearms; or Selling Firearms (ATF)
My Company Is Online, Do I Need Permits or Licenses?
The answer to this depends on what your company is offering. If your company sells products within a regulated industry (i.e. food, beverage, or medical equipment), then it will be subject to the licensing and permitting of that industry. If you’re selling digital information, clothing, handcrafted material, or software, then you will not be required to obtain a special business license. Instead, your company will most likely have to incorporate as a business and follow similar guidelines as a storefront business.
I Operate My Company Out Of My Home, Do I Need Permits Or Licenses?
The permit requirements differ depending on where you live, but many city and county zoning and planning agencies require at-home businesses to obtain a Home Occupation Permit before they start operating their business. Even if a permit is not required where you live, it is always a good idea to contact the zoning office to make sure that your neighborhood is zoned for home business activity. If your neighborhood isn’t zoned for this type of business, then you may have to file for a conditional-use permit. Many restrictions may apply to your business in this case including: prohibiting exterior changes to your home for the purpose of conduction business (aka putting up a sign), prohibiting your business to be conducted outsize, capping the number of visitors your can have to your home-based business, or prohibiting the number of employees your business can have.
Okay, So I Need A Permit or License, Where Do I Get It?
If you’re in Colorado, you can obtain most permits and licenses online here.
If you live in another state, you can find out more information about permits and licenses for your state here.