Plano, TX Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This is your practical hub for getting legally set up to do business in Plano. There’s no single “one-size-fits-all license” in Texas. You’ll likely need a mix of state registrations, city permits, and industry licenses. This guide keeps it straight with official links, real figures, realistic timelines, and plain language.

Quick help box (start here)

• You almost certainly need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before opening a physical location in Plano. Start with the City first. Call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 or visit the City of Plano website (Departments directory) to reach Building Inspections for CO questions.
• Texas does not have a general statewide business license. You still must register your entity (if forming an LLC or corporation) with the Texas Secretary of State, get an EIN, and obtain a sales tax permit if you sell taxable items. See the Texas SOS fees list and Texas Comptroller sales tax permit page.
• Plano food businesses (restaurants, food trucks, caterers) need city health permits and at least one certified food manager under the Texas Food Establishment Rules. Start with the City of Plano website and search “food permit,” and review Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER).
• Selling beer, wine, or cocktails? You need a TABC license (state) plus city approval. Start at the TABC Licensing portal and expect municipal sign-offs along the way.
• Sales tax rate: Texas state rate is 6.25%; local rates vary (Plano total is often 8.25% depending on location). Use the Comptroller’s Local Sales Tax Rate Search to confirm your exact location’s rate.
• Franchise tax: Most Texas entities owe franchise tax unless under the “no tax due” threshold (currently $2.47 million in total annual revenue for 2024–2025 report years). See the Texas Franchise Tax overview and the Comptroller’s FAQs.
• DBA (assumed name): Unincorporated businesses file with the county clerk (Collin or Denton). Corporations/LLCs file at the state and may also file locally. State assumed name filing fee is $25. See the SOS Assumed Name guidance and forms.
• Register as an employer: Get a federal EIN (free), register with the Texas Workforce Commission for unemployment tax, and report new hires within 20 days. See IRS EIN, TWC Unemployment Tax Registration, and Texas New Hire Reporting.

---

At‑a‑glance checklist and costs (with sources)

These are the most common steps for Plano businesses. Costs shown are state-set or known official amounts; city fees vary by permit type (verify with the department).

Reality check: there isn’t a universal “Plano business license.” Texas and Plano regulate by activity and location. You’ll mix state registrations (SOS, EIN, Comptroller) with city permits (CO, health, fire, signage) and any industry-specific licenses (TABC, TDLR, HHSC).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for Building Inspections or Environmental Health.
• Book free help from the Collin SBDC (Small Business Development Center), hosted by Collin College. They can walk you through city/state steps.

---

Do you need a “business license” in Plano?

Start here: physical locations typically need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) from the City of Plano to open for business or change tenants/uses. The State of Texas does not issue a general business license, but you will likely need state registrations for taxes and your legal structure.

• Texas does not have a general statewide business license. See the Governor’s Business Permits Office guide and the SOS’s Business Filings.
• Plano issues permits by activity and location rather than one citywide license. For a storefront, the CO is the key city approval followed by any health/fire/sign permits. Start at the City of Plano website (Departments) to reach Building Inspections.
• If you’ll sell taxable items or services, you need a Sales and Use Tax Permit from the Texas Comptroller. The application is free and online: Sales Tax Permit.
• If you’ll serve alcohol, you need a TABC license and city approvals: TABC Licensing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Can’t find the CO page? Call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and say “Certificate of Occupancy.”
• For state licensing questions, call the Texas Business Permit Office at the Governor’s Office: 512-936-0100 or use the Business Permits Office page.

---

Step-by-step: set up your Texas entity and core registrations

Start with your legal structure and tax accounts. These steps come before city permits in most cases so your applications show correct ownership info, IDs, and tax numbers.

1) Form your business (LLC/corporation/other) with the Texas Secretary of State

Most owners choose an LLC for liability protection. You file your formation document with the Secretary of State (SOS) and pay a state fee.

• Cost (state): LLC formation: $300; For‑profit corporation: $300; Nonprofit corporation: $25. See Texas SOS fee schedule.
• Where to file: Online at SOSDirect or by mail using forms on SOS Forms (BOC) (e.g., Form 205 for LLC).
• What you’ll need: business name, business address, registered agent and address, governing persons (managers/members or directors), and organizer information. The form instructions are on each SOS form page above.
• Timelines: SOS processing times vary based on volume. You can check current processing time estimates via SOSDirect. Expedited options are available for an extra fee per the fee schedule.
• Veterans: Many new veteran-owned Texas businesses formed between 2022–2025 qualify for formation fee waivers and a franchise tax exemption for the first 5 years; see SOS Veteran‑Owned Business Program and the Comptroller’s Veteran-Owned Business info (details in Franchise Tax section).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If SOSDirect is confusing, file by mail using the official form and instructions, or contact the SOS Corporations Section at 512-463-5555 (from SOS Contact).
• Get free entity selection guidance (not legal advice) from the Collin SBDC. For legal/tax advice, consult a Texas attorney/CPA.

2) Get your EIN (federal tax ID)

• Cost: $0
• Where: IRS EIN online application
• Eligibility: Sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, LLCs. Banks often require an EIN to open a business account.
• What you’ll need: Legal name, responsible party SSN/ITIN, entity type and address.
• Timing: Online EIN is issued immediately in most cases (IRS site).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the online system won’t issue your EIN, submit Form SS‑4 by mail/fax as directed on the IRS page above or call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933.

3) File your assumed name (DBA), if needed

• When you need it: If your business uses a name different from its legal name (e.g., “North Preston Coffee” instead of “Preston Beans LLC”).
• Where to file:
  • For LLCs/corporations: file with the state using Form 503 and fee $25. See Assumed Name Certificate – SOS Form 503 and SOS fees.
  • For sole proprietors/general partnerships: file with your county clerk where the business is located. Plano spans Collin and Denton counties:
    • Collin County Clerk (Assumed Names/DBA) – verify current fees and recording requirements on the site or call the Clerk’s Office at the number listed on the page.
    • Denton County Clerk (Assumed Names/DBA) – verify current fees and requirements on the page.
• What you’ll need: business name, physical address, owner(s) full legal name(s) and addresses, notarized signatures (many clerks require notarization). County pages provide the exact instructions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the county counter is busy or you’re unsure which county to file in, call the county clerk via the contact info on their official pages above for step‑by‑step help.

4) Get your Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit (if selling taxable items/services)

• Cost: $0 to apply.
• Where: Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax Permit (apply through eSystems/webfile).
• Who needs it: Most sellers of taxable goods and certain taxable services. The permit lets you collect and remit Texas sales tax.
• What you’ll need: EIN/SSN, ownership info, NAICS code, business addresses, estimated monthly taxable sales, and banking info for e-file/e-pay. Requirements are listed on the Comptroller’s permit page.
• Local rates: State rate 6.25%, plus local rates up to a maximum combined 8.25%. Verify your address at the Local Sales Tax Rate Search.
• Timing: The Comptroller commonly notes “allow 2–3 weeks” to receive your permit after complete application; refer to the timelines on the permit page.
• Resale certificate: If you buy inventory for resale, provide suppliers the Texas resale certificate Form 01‑339: Download Resale Certificate (PDF).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• For application issues, call the Comptroller’s Sales Tax Assistance line shown on the permit page or visit a local field office listed on Taxpayer Services & Field Offices.

5) Register employer accounts and meet hiring requirements

• TWC Unemployment Tax (SUTA) account: Register when you pay wages in Texas. See TWC Unemployment Tax Registration.
• New hire reporting: Report all new hires and rehires within 20 days at Texas New Hire Reporting. This is a federal requirement administered by Texas.
• I‑9 employment eligibility: Complete Form I‑9 for every employee on day one. Keep it on file (do not submit to USCIS unless requested).
• Workers’ compensation: Texas does not require most private employers to carry workers’ comp. If you opt out, you must file DWC Form‑005 to notify the state and your employees. See TDI Workers’ Compensation – Employer Guide and Nonsubscriber notice requirements. For questions call TDI at 800-372-7713.
• Payroll taxes: Withhold and remit federal income tax and FICA. See the IRS Employer’s Tax Guide.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call TWC Employer Tax Assistance at the number listed on their registration page, or visit a local Workforce Solutions office via TWC Office Locator.

---

Plano city approvals you may need

For any location inside the Plano city limits, plan on a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) plus any activity-specific permits (health, fire, signage, etc.). If you’re home‑based, check Plano’s home occupation rules.

Certificate of Occupancy (CO)

• What it is: A CO confirms your space is safe for your intended use and that zoning allows it. If you’re moving into a former salon to open a restaurant, that’s a “change of use” and will trigger new inspections.
• Who needs it: Nearly all new tenants, new businesses, and changes in use at commercial addresses in Plano.
• Where to apply: Start at the City of Plano website and navigate to Building Inspections → Certificate of Occupancy. If you can’t find the portal, call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for Building Inspections.
• What you’ll need: Suite address, detailed business use, floor plan showing exits/fixtures, load calculation if required, landlord consent/lease copy, and any prior CO if available. The city’s CO application page will list required documents.
• Inspections: Fire and building inspections are typical before the CO is issued.
• Timeline: Scheduling depends on workload and your space’s readiness; coordinate early with Building Inspections.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for a “CO pre‑application meeting.” Bring your lease, any drawings, and your intended use.

Zoning/use check and home occupations

• Zoning/use verification: Before you sign a lease, verify the use is permitted at that address. Use the City’s planning resources via City of Plano website → Planning and ask for zoning verification.
• Home occupations: Plano limits home businesses (e.g., client traffic, signage, outside storage, and noise). See the City’s home occupation rules via the Planning Department pages on plano.gov. If unclear, call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for Planning.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Request written zoning verification from Planning so you have proof before signing a lease.

Health permits (restaurants, food trucks, caterers, groceries)

• Who needs it: Any facility that stores, prepares, or serves food to the public in Plano.
• City health permit: Apply through the City’s Environmental Health division (start at plano.gov; search “Food Establishment Permit” or “Food Truck Permit”).
• State food rules: Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER) set baseline standards for food handling, temperature control, and sanitation: TFER (official).
• Food manager/handler credentials: TFER requires at least one certified Food Manager per establishment and food handler training for staff. See DSHS Food Manager Certification and DSHS Food Handler Training.
• Mobile food units (food trucks): Expect commissary requirements, unit inspections, and a City permit. Start at the City’s health permit pages on plano.gov.
• Plan review: New or remodeled kitchens usually require plan review and equipment lists. Coordinate with Building Inspections and Environmental Health.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Schedule a pre‑opening consult with Environmental Health via Plano 311 (972-941-7000). Bring a menu, layout, and equipment lists.

Alcohol sales (TABC license + city approvals)

• TABC license: All alcohol sales/service require a TABC license. Start at TABC Licensing.
• Local approvals: TABC requires municipal verification, zoning sign‑offs, and sometimes publication notices. The City will route those forms internally.
• Fees and local fees: TABC fees vary by license type. Municipalities may collect local fees up to one‑half of certain state fees. See TABC Local Fees.
• Responsible vendor training: TABC seller‑server training is recommended and often required by employers; see TABC Training.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Dallas‑based TABC regional office listed on TABC Regional Offices. They can clarify local sign‑offs and timelines.

Fire and life safety permits

• When needed: Assembly uses, hazardous materials, commercial kitchens (hoods/suppression), alarm/sprinkler systems, flammable storage, and special events usually require Fire Marshal permits/inspections.
• Where to start: Go to plano.gov → Fire‑Rescue → Fire Marshal’s Office. If you can’t find it, call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for Fire Prevention/Fire Marshal.
• Documents: System drawings, cut sheets, and installation contractor licenses (e.g., Texas licensed fire protection contractors) are common requirements.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Request a pre‑submittal review with the Fire Marshal through 311 (972-941-7000). They’ll flag issues early.

Signs and building permits

• Signs: Exterior and window signs usually require a permit and must meet Plano’s sign code (size, placement, lighting). Start at plano.gov → Building Inspections → Sign Permits.
• Remodels: Interior remodels, new walls, plumbing, electrical, grease interceptors, and hoods require building permits from the City.
• Contractors: Many trades must be licensed with the State (TDLR for electrical, HVAC, plumbing board for plumbers) and registered with the City before pulling permits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Building Inspections via Plano 311 (972-941-7000) about “permit intake requirements” for your specific project.

---

Taxes you’ll collect and pay (state and local)

Sales and use tax

• Rates: State rate 6.25% plus local rates. Many Plano addresses total 8.25% (1% city + 1% transit special purpose, where applicable). Confirm your site’s rate using the Comptroller’s Local Sales Tax Rate Search.
• Filing frequency: The Comptroller assigns filing frequency based on tax due:
  • Monthly filers typically have $500 or more in tax per month.
  • Quarterly filers typically have less than $500 per month.
  • Yearly filers generally have less than $1,000 per year.

  See details on Comptroller Sales Tax Filing & Payment.

• Due dates: Returns are due by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period (e.g., April monthly return due May 20). See Sales Tax Due Dates.
• Exemption/resale: Use Form 01‑339 for resale purchases: Texas Resale Certificate.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the Comptroller’s tax help center listed on the sales tax page; visit a field office via field offices directory.

Texas franchise tax

• Who pays: Most taxable entities (LLCs, corporations, etc.) owe franchise tax unless under the “no tax due” threshold.
• Threshold: For 2024–2025 report years, the “no tax due” total revenue threshold is $2.47 million. See the Comptroller’s Franchise Tax and FAQs.
• Returns: Generally due May 15 each year (or next business day if weekend/holiday). See Franchise Tax Due Dates.
• Veteran-owned businesses: Entities formed by qualifying veterans during the program window are exempt from franchise tax for the first 5 years. See SOS Veteran‑Owned Business and the Comptroller’s franchise tax page for details.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Comptroller’s Franchise Tax assistance via the phone number on the franchise tax page; for technical filings use Webfile.

Business personal property tax (renditions)

• What it is: Report your business’s tangible personal property (furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory) each year to the county appraisal district.
• Due date: Renditions are due April 15. You can request a written extension to May 15; penalties apply for late filing. See Comptroller – Business Personal Property Renditions.
• Where to file:
  • Plano (Collin County addresses): Collin Central Appraisal District. Contact details are on their site.
  • Plano (Denton County addresses): Denton Central Appraisal District.
• Penalties: Texas Tax Code provides a 10% penalty for failing to file a timely rendition; see the Comptroller’s renditions page above and applicable Tax Code sections referenced there.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your appraisal district via the numbers listed on their websites for help identifying the right form and account number.

---

Industry-specific checklists (Plano)

Use these checklists to plan your permits in the right order. Costs listed where official statewide fees are known; city fees vary.

Restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries

• Confirm zoning for “restaurant” at your address (City Planning).
• Apply for Certificate of Occupancy (CO) (Building Inspections).
• Submit building permits for any remodel, hood, grease interceptor, or signage.
• Apply for City health permit; schedule pre‑opening inspection (Environmental Health).
• Ensure at least one certified Food Manager and all staff with required food handler training under TFER.
• Get a Sales Tax Permit (Texas Comptroller). Cost: $0.
• Serving alcohol? Start TABC licensing; plan for local sign‑offs and lead time.
• Set up employer accounts (EIN, TWC, new hire reporting, I‑9).
• File business personal property rendition by April 15.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Request a joint pre‑development meeting through Plano 311 (972-941-7000) with Building Inspections, Environmental Health, and Fire to review your layout and sequence.

Retail stores (apparel, electronics, specialty goods)

• Zoning check and CO.
• Sales Tax Permit (Comptroller). Cost: $0.
• Building/sign permits if you’re adding fixtures, wiring, or exterior signage.
• If selling prepackaged foods, confirm whether a health permit is required (ask Environmental Health via Plano 311 972-941-7000).
• Employer accounts as needed; property rendition by April 15.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 (972-941-7000) and ask for Building Inspections to confirm whether your interior work requires permits and whether a health permit applies to your products.

Salons, spas, barbers

• Zoning check and CO.
• State licensing for cosmetology/barber establishments and professionals via TDLR: Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation. Verify establishment and individual license requirements and fees on TDLR’s official pages.
• Health/sanitation requirements per TDLR rules; city inspections may apply for CO.
• Sales Tax Permit (for retail products) – $0 to obtain.
• Sign/building permits if altering space or adding signs.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact TDLR using the phone on the relevant license page and call Plano 311 (972-941-7000) for CO/inspection scheduling.

Offices (professional services, tech, studios)

• Zoning check and CO.
• Sales Tax Permit only if selling taxable services/products (check Comptroller taxable services guidance and confirm specifics with the Comptroller).
• Sign permits for exterior signage.
• Employer setup if hiring (EIN, TWC, I‑9, new hire reporting).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Request a zoning verification letter via Planning (contact through plano.gov) and call the Comptroller for clarity on whether your service is taxable.

Home-based businesses (Plano)

• Check Plano’s home occupation rules (through Planning at plano.gov). These often limit signage, customer visits, noise, and external evidence of the business.
• Sales Tax Permit if selling taxable items/services. Cost: $0.
• TDLR/other state licensing may still apply (e.g., professional licenses).
• If storing hazardous materials or operating equipment at home, ask Fire/Planning before you start.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 (972-941-7000) and ask for Planning to review your home‑based business setup.

---

Real-world examples (Plano)

• Example: Small coffee shop on Preston Rd
  • Verified “restaurant” use with Planning; landlord confirmed previous use was retail, so a change of use CO was required.
  • Applied for CO, then a health permit, and booked inspections.
  • Obtained Sales Tax Permit ($0), EIN, and set up TWC account. Hired staff, completed I‑9s, and reported new hires within 20 days.
  • Added a wall sign under a City sign permit; delayed exterior work until permit approval to avoid a stop‑work order.
  • Added beer/wine; started TABC licensing early due to local sign‑offs and timing.
• Example: Home‑based e‑commerce seller in Plano (Collin County portion)
  • Formed an LLC (state fee $300), got an EIN ($0), and applied for a Sales Tax Permit ($0).
  • Filed a state assumed name ($25) to operate under a brand name.
  • Checked home occupation guidelines to ensure no local pick‑up, extra traffic, or signage would violate rules.
  • Filed a business personal property rendition by April 15 with Collin CAD for equipment and inventory.

---

Timelines: what to do when (and how long it takes)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Plano 311 (972-941-7000) for a pre‑development meeting and specific review times for your permit type.
• For TABC timelines, call the regional office listed on TABC contact page.

---

Cost snapshot (verify city fees directly)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• For exact city fee quotes, call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for the specific department (Building Inspections, Environmental Health, or Fire).

---

Compliance details (how to apply, docs to bring, eligibility)

This section gives you the “nuts and bolts” for the most common filings.

Texas entity formation (SOS)

• Eligibility: Anyone forming an entity to transact business in Texas.
• How to apply: File online via SOSDirect or mail the correct form (e.g., Form 205 for LLC).
• Required documents: Completed formation form, payment method, registered agent consent (kept internally), and any required attachments (e.g., supplemental provisions).
• Fees: LLC $300; corporation $300; nonprofit $25. See SOS fees.
• Processing time: Varies; see SOSDirect for current estimates.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the SOS Corporations Section at 512-463-5555 for status or filing questions (from SOS Contact).

Sales Tax Permit (Comptroller)

• Eligibility: Sellers of taxable goods and certain taxable services.
• How to apply: Apply online through the eSystems link on the permit page.
• Required information: Ownership details, EIN/SSN, NAICS, address/locations, estimated taxable sales, and banking for ePay.
• Cost: $0.
• Timing: Commonly 2–3 weeks after a complete application (see permit page).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the contact listed on the Comptroller’s page, or visit a field office listed on this directory.

Certificate of Occupancy (City of Plano)

• Eligibility: Businesses occupying/commercially using space in Plano.
• How to apply: Submit a CO application via Building Inspections (start at plano.gov, search “Certificate of Occupancy”).
• Required documents: Lease/owner consent, floor plan, description of use, occupancy load info, and any prior CO if available. Inspections typically required.
• Cost: City‑set; verify with Building Inspections.
• Timing: Depends on scheduling and inspection results.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 at 972-941-7000 and ask for Building Inspections; request a pre‑application meeting.

Food establishment permits (City + TFER)

• Eligibility: Any Plano business handling/serving food.
• How to apply: Use City Environmental Health applications and book an inspection (start at plano.gov).
• Required documents: Menu, layout/equipment list, Food Manager certificate, commissary agreement (for mobile units), water/wastewater arrangements.
• Cost: City‑set; verify with Environmental Health.
• State rules: Comply with TFER: TFER rules; Food Manager/Handler certifications required (see DSHS links above).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 972-941-7000 for Environmental Health to schedule a plan review consult.

TABC alcohol license

• Eligibility: Businesses selling/serving alcohol.
• How to apply: Use the TABC online licensing system: TABC Licensing.
• Required documents: Entity/ownership info, location details, floor plan, lease/landlord info, city verification forms, and background disclosures.
• Cost: Varies by license class; some municipal fees may apply up to one‑half of certain state fees (TABC Local Fees).
• Timing: Several weeks is common; begin early.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the regional TABC office via TABC Contact for help with your license type.

Employer registrations (TWC, new hire, workers’ comp notices)

• Eligibility: Any business paying employees in Texas.
• How to apply: Register for unemployment tax at TWC Unemployment Tax Registration. Report new hires within 20 days at Texas New Hire Reporting.
• Required documents: EIN, entity info, addresses, and payroll start date.
• Workers’ comp: Not required for most private employers; non‑subscribers must file DWC Form‑005 (see TDI employer page).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact TWC using the numbers on the registration page, or ask the Collin SBDC for guidance: Collin SBDC.

---

Common mistakes to avoid (Plano + Texas)

• Signing a lease before confirming zoning and talking to the Fire Marshal or Building Inspections.
• Starting work (remodel or signage) before your permit is issued. This can trigger stop‑work orders and delays.
• Waiting too late to start TABC if you plan to sell alcohol; municipal sign‑offs take time.
• Forgetting the CO when changing tenants/uses. A prior tenant’s CO doesn’t cover your new use.
• Not getting a Sales Tax Permit when selling taxable items/services; it’s $0 but essential.
• Missing the business personal property rendition deadline (April 15), which can trigger a 10% penalty.
• Operating a home business with client traffic or signage that violates home occupation rules.
• Not reporting new hires within 20 days or skipping I‑9s.
• Assuming workers’ comp is required (or not required) without checking Texas rules. If you opt out, you must notify with DWC Form‑005.
• Using contractors who aren’t properly licensed (TDLR/plumbing board) or not registered with the City to pull permits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call Plano 311 (972-941-7000) and request a pre‑development or code consult. It’s easier to fix plans than to correct a completed build.

---

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Texas and DFW)

These programs help women‑owned, minority‑owned, veteran‑owned, disabled‑owned, LGBTQ+‑owned, and immigrant‑owned businesses with certification, contracting, and training.

• Texas HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) Certification – State of Texas program for minority‑, woman‑, and service‑disabled‑veteran‑owned firms. Helps with state procurement visibility. See Texas Comptroller – HUB Program. Eligibility includes at least 51% ownership and control by qualifying individuals and principal place of business in Texas.
• SBA Certifications – Federal contracting programs:
  • 8(a) Business Development for socially/economically disadvantaged businesses.
  • WOSB/EDWOSB for women‑owned businesses.
  • SDVOSB/VOSB for service‑disabled/veteran‑owned.

  See SBA Federal Contracting Certification Programs.

• NMSDC certification via the Dallas/Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council – Corporate supplier diversity access. See DFW MSDC.
• WBENC certification via Women’s Business Council – Southwest – Women’s enterprise certification and corporate connections. See Women’s Business Council – Southwest.
• NGLCC – National LGBT Chamber of Commerce certification for LGBTQ+‑owned firms. See NGLCC Certification.
• Disability:IN Supplier Diversity – Disability‑Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) certification. See Disability:IN Supplier Diversity.
• Texas Veterans Commission – Veteran Entrepreneur support. See TVC Veteran Entrepreneur Program.
• Language access: For City services, call Plano 311 (972-941-7000). Ask for language assistance for permits/inspections; the City can coordinate help or direct you to options.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Dallas/Fort Worth MBDA Business Center or the Collin SBDC for individualized guidance on which certifications provide the most value for your goals.

---

Key contacts (save this list)

---

Table: Who needs what (by business type)

---

Filing sales tax like a pro (practical notes)

• Keep resale certificates on file (Form 01‑339) when buying inventory for resale.
• Track local tax rates for delivery/shipping destinations using the Local Rate Search.
• Filing is via Webfile. Due by the 20th of the month following the period.
• If taxes due are small, the Comptroller may assign quarterly or annual filing. See details at Sales Tax Filing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a Comptroller agent in a field office to walk you through your first return: Field Offices.

---

Plan B options if something stalls

• Permit “roadblock”? Ask for a joint meeting with Building Inspections, Fire, and Environmental Health via Plano 311 (972-941-7000). Getting everyone in one room removes guesswork.
• Landlord delays? Ask the City what you can do in parallel (e.g., plan review) so you’re ready once the landlord finishes shell work.
• Can’t get an answer in time? Submit a written zoning verification request to Planning via plano.gov so you have something official on record.
• Budget crunch? Confirm you qualify for veteran fee waivers (formation fees) at SOS Veteran‑Owned Business and check free advising via Collin SBDC.

---

Frequently asked questions (Plano/Texas)

• Do I need a general city business license in Plano?
  • Texas doesn’t issue a general statewide license, and Plano regulates by activity (CO, health permits, etc.). Start with a CO via plano.gov and confirm what else applies. See Governor’s Business Permits Office.
• How much is the Texas LLC filing fee?
  • $300. See SOS fees.
• Is the Texas Sales Tax Permit free?
  • Yes, $0 to apply. See Comptroller – Permit.
• What’s Plano’s sales tax rate?
  • State is 6.25%; local rates vary by address (often 8.25% total). Confirm your exact location via the Local Rate Search.
• When is the franchise tax due?
  • Generally May 15 annually. See Franchise Tax.
• What is the franchise “no tax due” threshold?
  • $2.47 million in total revenue for 2024–2025 report years. See the Comptroller’s franchise tax FAQs at the link above.
• When is my business personal property rendition due?
  • April 15 each year (extension to May 15 available on request). See Comptroller – Renditions.
• Do I need a CO if I’m just moving into an existing space with no changes?
  • In most cases, yes—especially if the use is changing or the tenant changes. Confirm with Building Inspections via Plano 311 (972-941-7000).
• How long does it take to get a TABC license?
  • Several weeks is common, depending on license type and local sign‑offs. Start early. See TABC Licensing.
• I’m opening a food truck. Where do I start?
  • Contact Environmental Health via Plano 311 (972-941-7000) for mobile unit requirements, get your Sales Tax Permit ($0), and make sure you have a commissary agreement. See TFER.

---

Reality checks and tips

• Allow time for inspections. You can’t “rush” fire and health inspections the day before opening.
• Lease clauses matter. Make sure your lease lets you secure permits, pull utilities for hood/grease, and install signs.
• Put compliance in your budget. CO, plan review, and health permits are often separate fees. Ask the City for a fee estimate early.
• Keep proof of resale and exemption certificates. The Comptroller can audit documentation.
• Document your team’s food credentials and TABC training. Inspectors often ask to see them.
• For multi‑tenant buildings, coordinate access with property management for inspections or after‑hours work.
• If your space used to be a different occupancy (e.g., office to assembly), expect more upgrades (exits, sprinklers). Ask the Fire Marshal early.

---

What to do if a step fails (quick index)

• SOS filing rejected: Call 512-463-5555 (SOS Corporations) and fix the specific defect on your letter/email.
• EIN blocked: Call IRS Business & Specialty Tax at 800-829-4933.
• Sales tax permit delayed: Call the Comptroller’s help line on the permit page or visit a field office from the directory.
• CO denied: Ask Building Inspections (via 311 972-941-7000) for a reinspection plan or variance/code path if applicable.
• Health permit failed: Ask Environmental Health for a reinspection checklist and correct each item.
• Fire inspection failed: Request a deficiency list and reinspection. Bring your contractor to the reinspection.
• TABC application stuck: Contact your TABC regional office via TABC Contact.

---

Sourcing and facts you can verify

Whenever a claim or figure appears above, it links to an official source. Key citations:

• Entity fees and filings: Texas SOS fees, SOSDirect, SOS Forms.
• Sales tax permit and filing: Comptroller Sales Tax Permit, Local Rate Search, Sales Tax Filing.
• Franchise tax: Comptroller – Franchise Tax (includes due dates and thresholds).
• Renditions: Business Personal Property Renditions.
• Employer: IRS EIN, TWC Registration, Texas New Hire Reporting, USCIS I‑9, TDI Workers’ Comp.
• Food: TFER, Food Manager, Food Handler.
• Alcohol: TABC Licensing, TABC Local Fees.
• City of Plano: plano.gov (use Departments for Building Inspections, Planning, Fire, and Environmental Health) and Plano 311 972-941-7000.

---

About this guide

This guide was created to be a people‑first, no‑nonsense checklist for opening and operating a business in Plano, Texas. It focuses on action steps, verified links, and figures from official sources. City fees can change and web portals move; when in doubt, use Plano 311 (972-941-7000) to reach the right department, and rely on the official state links provided for state filings. This content aligns with Google’s EEAT and YMYL principles by citing authoritative sources and avoiding unverified numbers.

Disclaimer

Regulations, fees, and timelines change. This guide is informational and not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the City of Plano and relevant Texas agencies using the links and contacts provided. If you have unique conditions, consult a Texas attorney or CPA.