First Stop Business Guide

Almost any business activity you engage in will require a city or county business license, which is usually fairly simple to obtain. In addition, some types of businesses will have to obtain licenses from the federal government to operate, while other businesses, occupations and professions are also licensed and regulated by the state.

Even though there are tremendous variations regarding the requirements for obtaining necessary federal and state licenses, these requirements generally relate to educational attainment, experience in the particular field, passage of examinations, submission of detailed applications, meeting financial or bonding requirements or some combination thereof, plus payment of a licensing fee or tax.

In addition to the federal and state licensing requirements, certain local, city or county permits may have to be obtained. For example, businesses in the food industry may have to get a license from the county health department; or, if your business involves construction or remodeling, you might have to get approval from your local planning commission.

Before you begin to operate any kind of business, find out whether you will be required to obtain any special government licenses or permits, since, in most cases, you must obtain that particular license before commencing operation.

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The information contained in this booklet is intended to address the most frequently asked questions of small business owners throughout our state. While the information is current as of July 2005, it is subject to change. We recommend the advice of an attorney and/or accountant be obtained in the pursuit of any new business to assure compliance with Georgia law.

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