I want to search for existing businesses.

I want to proceed to the business license application process, instructions, forms and interactive help.

Frequently Asked Questions And Answers:

What is a business license and do I need one?
A business license is the means whereby the City of Las Vegas grants you permission to engage in the business for which your license will be issued. If you commence, carry on, or engage in any business, either permanently or temporarily, within the corporate limits of Las Vegas, you are required to maintain a valid unexpired business license.

How do I find out if I’m within the Las Vegas city limits?
You may use our interactive map application to determine if the business location is within the city limits. You may also contact the Planning and Development Department at 229-6301. If you are unable to get through to the Planning and Development Department please call the Business Services Division at 229-6281 and our staff will assist you.
Take me to the Interactive Map application.

How long does it take to receive a business license?
Most business licenses in the city are general business licenses which can be issued within thirty days. Privilege licenses, which are licenses that require special approval by the Las Vegas City Council, can take sixty days or more. These categories include, but may not be limited, to all liquor licenses, gaming, secondhand dealers, pawnshops, child care licenses, locksmiths, burglar alarm services, martial arts schools, massage establishments, auctioneers, mobile food vendors and mobile ice cream vendors. The application paperwork and scheduling of an appointment to complete the privilege application process can be obtained through Business Services on the third floor of City Hall, 400 Stewart Avenue, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or by calling 229-6281 for Privilege Licensing and 229-6922 for Child Care Licensing.

What do I need to apply for a business license?
To apply for a City of Las Vegas general business license, you will need the following: Proof that you have obtained all required licenses from the Nevada Department of Taxation; a completed Las Vegas Business License application form; and all necessary fees.

How much does it cost?
There is a non-refundable $30.00 application fee for each new license application and for each change of ownership, change of name or change of location on an existing license. Business license fees are billed annually or semi-annually, depending on the type of license. For a new business, license fees for the current billing period must be paid at the time the application is filed. These fees may vary from $25.00 to $1,200.00, depending on the license classification. Your particular fee will be discussed upon submission of your application. For exact fees for the type of business you want to conduct call Business Services at 702-229-6281.

What does the business license process entail?
All business licenses must be reviewed by the Planning & Development Department for zoning compliance and Fire Services Department for fire safety code compliance. If your business is State regulated and/or if your business is involved in food preparation then compliance with the appropriate State agency and the Clark County Health District, respectively, must be obtained prior to the issuance of a permanent license.

Why does the City license businesses? Businesses are licensed to insure that their location is properly zoned for the activity to be conducted, that the building the business will be operating in meets fire safety code standards, that all state and local codes are adhered to insuring the safety and well-being of our citizens, and that privilege businesses are properly regulated. The revenue from license fee collections go to the City’s general fund to pay for the cost of licensing and regulation, and to insure continuation and improvement of City facilities and services.

I want to search for existing businesses.

I want to proceed to the business license application process, instructions, forms and interactive help.