Small business owners are responsible for everything about their companies. One of their duties is obtaining licenses. Without them, they may be breaking the law. Here’s a quick overview of some that your enterprise might need.

Business Operating Licenses

One of these gives you the right to own and operate a startup within your area. The requirements for acquiring one vary depending on local codes, as determined by your city, state, and county. To find out what you must do, visit your local town hall or relevant website. Certain industries require occupational licenses specific to them. Be sure you apply for ones relating to your field.

Building and Zoning Licenses

Entrepreneurs sometimes purchase plots of land on which they wish to build. Permission is necessary before they break ground. Similarly, this is the case if you want to renovate an existing building. Even adding appliances could mandate getting clearance. You shouldn’t have trouble earning a building license if you are diligent about following safety codes and adhering to other requirements.

City zoning departments are in charge of enforcing rules that set where certain businesses are allowed to exist. If you plan on operating in the middle of a residential zone, your odds of rejection are greater. You may be able to identify businesses similar to the one you’re incorporating already in your territory. If so, a specific zoning license is unnecessary. Otherwise, you will have to bring your request to a committee of city planners. They will determine whether your intention has the potential to create a neighborhood disruption.

Environmental Licenses

We have laws to make sure commerce does not interfere with Mother Nature. For this reason, you may need to obtain an environmental license to make sure your activities are in line with conservational goals. For instance, authorities want to know if the waste that businesses produce does not seep into groundwater. Environmental regulations have toughened over the years, so be forewarned. Even minor violations can result in hefty fines.

Safety Licenses

For restaurants, flames are one of their primary tools. Fire departments are highly concerned that kitchen designs put safety first. Places where people gather, such as hotels and gyms, need extinguishers and commercial fire doors in place. Authorities must verify that these rules are respected.

The preceding are only some of the permits small business owners must acquire before they’re in the clear to open their doors. Others may apply. Make sure you have each one you need ahead of commercial activity.