7 / Licenses, Permits, and Business Formation
101
name, also known as a dba (doing business as). Registering your dba with the proper authorities puts the public on notice that you are the owner of the business. Corporations are not normally required to file a fictitious business name statement, unless they too are operating under a different name. Also, know that some banks require such a statement before opening a business bank account. Requirements for filing the fictitious business name statement vary according to locale. Some places require that you file a form and pay a fee to the county, others require that you do so with the city. The process usually just requires that you go to the proper office, fill out a fictitious business name statement, and pay a registration fee (usually less than $100). Some places also require that the statement be published in a local newspaper. You will also need to get a business license from your city or county. Other permits and requirements you may need include: • A health department permit, if you will be selling food somehow • Beer, wine, and hard liquor licenses • Environmental regulations, if you will be using paints or other chemicals, or if you will be burning anything (in a kiln for instance) • A fire department permit, if your business is going to use flammable materials • A water pollution control permit, if you will be discharging materials into waterways or sewers • A permit or permission of a landlord, if you plan on posting a sign of some sort • A license or bond for certain professions including barbers, lawyers, doctors, nurses, cosmetologists, real estate brokers and agents, mechanics, plumbers, electricians, contractors, and insurance agents You can begin your journey down the permit path by visiting your city’s business planning office. It should have a packet that explains exactly what licenses and permits you need, where to get them, and what they cost.
Resources You Can Use Findlaw for Business <www.businesslaw.gov>