North Las Vegas, NV Business License Guide

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The Ultimate North Las Vegas, NV Business License Guide (No B.S., Actionable, and Verified)

Last updated: August 2025

North Las Vegas has its own rules. If you plan to do business inside North Las Vegas city limits—even from your home, online, mobile, or “out-of-city” contractors working inside NLV—you almost certainly need a City of North Las Vegas business license, on top of your Nevada state registrations. This guide gives you the exact steps, the real agencies, realistic timelines, and what trips people up.

Note: You’ll see official links throughout. When exact dollar amounts are available from official sources, they’re listed with citations. If a city fee is variable or only provided in a live schedule, the link will take you to the official fee page to confirm the current amount before you pay. Programs and fees change—always verify before filing.

Quick Help Box (Start Here)

  • If you’re opening in North Las Vegas, confirm your address is inside city limits and your zoning allows your use before you sign a lease. Use the City’s Planning/Zoning resources or call City Hall at 702-633-1000 and ask for Planning/Business Licensing. See: North Las Vegas Planning & Zoning — official site (navigate to Planning). Source checked August 2025.
  • Form your Nevada entity and get your Nevada State Business License on the state portal SilverFlume. Most entities pay 200∗∗annuallyfortheStateBusinessLicense;for−profitcorporationspay∗∗200** annually for the State Business License; for-profit corporations pay **500. Source: Nevada Secretary of State — State Business License fees (official, checked August 2025).
  • Register for Nevada taxes (sales/use, modified business tax if applicable, commerce tax if applicable) with the Department of Taxation via SilverFlume. See: Nevada Department of Taxation — Business Registration (official, checked August 2025).
  • Food, salon, tattoo, pools/childcare, or other health-regulated businesses: Get your Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) permit first. Main line: 702-759-1000. See: SNHD — Permits and Licensing (official, checked August 2025).
  • Contractors working in North Las Vegas need a Nevada contractor’s license for jobs $1,000+ or requiring a building permit. Southern Nevada office: 702-486-1100. See: Nevada State Contractors Board — Get Licensed (official, checked August 2025). You also need the North Las Vegas city business license.
  • Apply for your City of North Las Vegas business license after state setup and required inspections. Start at the City’s Business License page/portal. See: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (departments > Business License). Source checked August 2025.
  • Timelines: straightforward office/home occupation licenses can be approved in weeks; privileged licenses (alcohol, gaming, adult-oriented, etc.) can take months and require background checks and hearings.
  • Need free help? The Nevada SBDC provides free advising. See: Nevada SBDC — Locations (official, checked August 2025). The SBA Nevada District Office and Nevada Women’s Business Center can help, too.
  • If stuck on “who licenses me,” remember jurisdiction lines matter. Not the mailing address—your physical location and where you perform work. If you’re in unincorporated Clark County, City of Las Vegas, or Henderson, you need their license. See: Clark County Business License, City of Las Vegas Business License, City of Henderson Business License (official, checked August 2025).

Who You’ll Deal With (At a Glance)

These are the core agencies for a North Las Vegas launch. Use this table as your compass.

Agency What They Do When You Use Them Official Link
City of North Las Vegas — Business License Division Issues city business licenses, runs privileged licensing hearings and suitability checks After you complete state setup and required inspections; or to confirm license category and fees City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (navigate: Departments > Business License). Source checked Aug 2025.
City of North Las Vegas — Planning/Zoning, Building Safety, Fire Zoning verification; Certificates of Occupancy; plan review; fire life-safety inspections Before signing a lease; before city license; during tenant improvements City of North Las Vegas — Planning/Building/Fire (navigate to Land Development & Community Services). Checked Aug 2025.
Nevada Secretary of State (SilverFlume) Entity formation, trade names (state), State Business License At startup and for annual renewals SilverFlume Nevada Business Portal (official). Checked Aug 2025.
Nevada Department of Taxation Sales/use tax permit; MBT; Commerce Tax; excise taxes Before selling taxable goods/services; hiring; hitting revenue thresholds NV Taxation — Business Registration (official). Checked Aug 2025.
IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) Before hiring, opening bank accounts, certain filings IRS — Apply for an EIN (official). Checked Aug 2025.
DETR (NV Unemployment Insurance) Employer payroll/UI registration When hiring employees NV UI Employer — Online Services (official). Checked Aug 2025.
SNHD (Southern Nevada Health District) Health permits for food, pools, childcare, body art, etc. Before opening any health-regulated business SNHD — Permits & Licensing (official). Checked Aug 2025.
NV State Contractors Board Contractor licensing for construction work Before bidding/working on covered projects NSCB — Licensing (official). Checked Aug 2025.
NV Cannabis Compliance Board; NV Gaming Control Board State approvals for cannabis, gaming Privileged/regulated industries CCB — Licensing, NGCB — Licensing (official). Checked Aug 2025.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which agency you need first, call City Hall at 702-633-1000 and ask for Business Licensing to confirm your sequence. Or book a free 1:1 with the Nevada SBDC.

Do You Need a City of North Las Vegas Business License?

Short answer: If you transact business in North Las Vegas, you likely need a city license—even if your office is elsewhere, if you perform work inside NLV (e.g., contractors, mobile services), or you operate from home inside NLV.

  • The city’s licensing rules live in Title 5 of the North Las Vegas Municipal Code. See: Municode Library — North Las Vegas Code of Ordinances (Title 5, Business Licenses) then search “North Las Vegas Title 5.” Source checked August 2025.
  • “Home-based” doesn’t mean “license-free.” Home occupations must follow zoning limits (parking, signage, customer traffic). Verify before you apply.
  • “Out-of-city” businesses doing work inside NLV still need a license in the City of North Las Vegas for work performed there (common for contractors, mobile mechanics, cleaners, etc.).
  • Privileged businesses (alcohol, gaming, adult-oriented, pawn, certain security services) require additional background checks and approvals.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If jurisdiction lines confuse you, use the Clark County Assessor’s parcel search to confirm your parcel’s jurisdiction, then call 702-633-1000 for the City’s Business Licensing to confirm whether the city license is required. If you’re in unincorporated county or another city, see their licensing pages linked in the Quick Help Box.

Step 1 — Confirm Zoning and Location (Before You Sign Anything)

This is the single most common source of delays and sunk costs. Confirm that your use is allowed at your exact address inside North Las Vegas city limits.

Action items:

  • Check the parcel’s jurisdiction and zoning designation. Then verify that your business use (e.g., restaurant, auto repair, daycare, office, home-based) is allowed, and whether it’s “permitted,” “conditionally permitted,” or requires a special use permit.
  • If you’ll remodel or change occupancy (e.g., convert a retail bay to a restaurant), talk with Building Safety about permits and the Certificate of Occupancy process. Fire Prevention may require separate review for hood systems, hazardous materials, or assembly use.
  • For home-based businesses, review the city’s home occupation standards (limits on customers per day, no exterior evidence, parking constraints). If your use generates noise, deliveries, or public traffic, you may not qualify.

Official resources:

Reality check:

  • Landlords sometimes say “It’s fine.” The City’s view is what matters. Get it in writing or verified by staff before you invest. Restaurant conversions may trigger grease interceptors, ADA upgrades, and fire suppression—these cost real time and money.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your chosen site isn’t allowed, ask Planning about similar nearby zones that do allow your use. Or pivot to a home occupation (if eligible) or a different location inside an appropriate zoning district. Free guidance: Nevada SBDC.

Step 2 — Form Your Business With the State and Get the Nevada State Business License

You can do all state setup on SilverFlume in one workflow.

Action items:

  • Choose your structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.). Most small businesses pick LLCs for liability protection and flexible taxation. If unsure, talk to a CPA/attorney.
  • File formation documents with the Nevada Secretary of State and obtain your Nevada State Business License (SBL).
  • Get your EIN from the IRS (free, instant online for most applicants).

Key state fees and facts (official sources):

  • Nevada State Business License fee (annual):
  • Nevada LLC Articles of Organization filing fee: Minimum 75∗∗(notincludinginitiallistandSBL).Corporationspaybasedonauthorizedshares(minimum∗∗75** (not including initial list and SBL). Corporations pay based on authorized shares (minimum **75).
    Source: NV SOS — Fee Schedule (official; checked August 2025).
  • Initial/Annual Lists (officers/managers) are required and have separate fees (commonly $150 for LLCs and corporations; verify current rates).
    Source: NV SOS — Fee Schedule (official; checked August 2025).
  • EIN: $0 via the IRS.
    Source: IRS — Apply for an EIN (official; checked August 2025).

Pro tip:

  • SilverFlume can “one-stop” connect you to NV Taxation, DETR, and some local agencies.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your filing is rejected, read the rejection reason in your SilverFlume dashboard. For fast help, call the NV SOS or refile corrected forms. If you need tailored advice (tax structure, multi-member setup), use the Nevada SBDC or a licensed Nevada attorney/CPA.

Step 3 — Register for Nevada Taxes (Sales/Use, Payroll, Commerce Tax)

Most businesses at least register for sales/use tax if selling taxable goods, and for payroll taxes if hiring employees.

Action items:

  • Through SilverFlume or directly with the Nevada Department of Taxation, register for the appropriate tax accounts (sales/use tax permit, Modified Business Tax if applicable, and other excise taxes as needed).
  • If you’ll have employees, register with DETR for Unemployment Insurance and set up payroll reporting. Get workers’ compensation coverage (private insurance) before your first hire.

Key numbers and deadlines (official sources):

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure what’s taxable, call NV Taxation or request a written determination. If you missed a filing, file ASAP and request penalty abatement if appropriate. For payroll setups, use a reputable payroll provider familiar with Nevada.

Step 4 — Health, Safety, and Industry Approvals (If Applicable)

Get these approvals before applying for your city license—North Las Vegas will often require evidence of approvals.

Common approvals:

  • Food service, food trucks, bakeries, bars, groceries, shared kitchens: Southern Nevada Health District (plan review + permit).
    Official: SNHD — Food Establishment Permits (checked August 2025).
  • Pools/spas; childcare; body art/tattoo; massage establishments: SNHD divisions issue distinct permits.
    Official: SNHD — Permits & Licensing (checked August 2025).
  • Construction/renovations/change of occupancy: City of North Las Vegas Building Safety permits and inspections; possible Fire Prevention approvals.
    Official: City of North Las Vegas — Building Safety (navigate to Building). Checked August 2025.
  • Contractors: Nevada State Contractors Board license for jobs $1,000+ or requiring permits (NRS 624).
    Official: NSCB — Licensing (checked August 2025). Statute: NRS 624.031 et seq. (checked August 2025).
  • Alcohol (on/off-premises), gaming, adult-oriented, pawn, security: Privileged categories require suitability/background checks and City Council/board approvals.
    Official: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (Privileged) (navigate to Business License). Checked August 2025.

Reality check:

  • SNHD plan review can take weeks; corrections add time. Tenant improvements need stamped plans and inspections; fire/life-safety items can be significant line items. Build these into your timeline and lease negotiations.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a plan review stalls, schedule a plan review meeting to resolve comments in one pass. Consider hiring a local architect/engineer who works in North Las Vegas regularly.

Step 5 — Apply for Your City of North Las Vegas Business License

Once your state setup and required inspections/permits are lined up, apply for the city license. The City categorizes businesses by type; some are simple, others privileged.

Action items:

  • Visit the City’s Business License page to start your application (online portal or downloadable forms depending on category).
    Official: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (navigate to Departments > Business License). Checked August 2025.
  • Prepare your documents. Typical items include: proof of state registration (NV SOS), State Business License, EIN, Nevada Taxation registration, lease (or notarized authorization for home-based), zoning clearance, health/fire/building approvals as applicable, and owner/manager IDs. Privileged licenses require additional background packets and possibly fingerprints.
  • Pay the applicable city fees (base application/processing and license fees). North Las Vegas fees vary by classification and sometimes by gross receipts, employees, or other measures. Confirm the current fee schedule on the City’s official page at filing time.
  • For home-based businesses, complete the City’s home occupation acknowledgment/attestation and meet all conditions.
  • Track your application status and respond promptly to corrections.

Processing times:

  • Simple, non-privileged categories with clean paperwork can be processed in weeks. Privileged categories can take months due to background checks, public notices, and council approvals. Always confirm timelines with the City for your category.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you receive corrections or a denial, ask for the exact code section and what will resolve it. You can often address issues with revised plans or additional documentation. Escalate to a supervisor if needed, and consider a brief consult with a local licensing attorney for privileged matters.

Typical Costs (State-Level Numbers) and Where to Verify City Fees

Below is a simplified snapshot. City fees are category-specific; always confirm on the official City page.

Item Typical Amount Notes Official Source
Nevada State Business License 200∗∗(mostentities);∗∗200** (most entities); **500 (for-profit corporations) Due at formation and annually NV SOS — State Business License (checked Aug 2025)
Nevada LLC Articles of Organization From $75 Plus Initial List and SBL NV SOS — Fee Schedule (checked Aug 2025)
EIN (IRS) $0 Online instant for most IRS — EIN (checked Aug 2025)
NV Dept. of Taxation Registration Varies by account Sales/use tax permit; other accounts as applicable NV Tax — Registration (checked Aug 2025)
SNHD Permits (Food, etc.) Varies by risk/type Plan review + permit fees SNHD — Permits (checked Aug 2025)
City of North Las Vegas Business License Varies by category Base, application, and category-based fees; privileged surcharges City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (checked Aug 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t find your exact fee online, call City Hall at 702-633-1000 and ask for Business Licensing. Request the written fee schedule or a fee quote by category for your NAICS.

Realistic Timelines

Plan your launch with buffers. Here’s a typical sequence.

Step Best-Case Time Reality Check
Zoning pre-check / site selection 1–5 business days Faster if you call before touring spaces.
State formation + SBL Same day to 3 business days (online) Rejections happen for name conflicts or missing info.
NV Taxation registration Same day to a few days Depends on accounts needed.
SNHD plan review (if food/health) 2–6 weeks Corrections add weeks. Seasonal spikes happen.
Building permits/inspections Weeks to months Tenant improvements + scheduling drive time.
City business license (non-privileged) 1–3 weeks after all approvals Depends on completeness and category.
Privileged license (alcohol, gaming, etc.) 2–4 months or more Backgrounds, hearings, public notices add time.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re facing a hard deadline (grand opening, franchise clock), ask the City if a temporary license or conditional approval is possible after key inspections. Get that in writing. Build contingencies into your lease.

Document Checklists (City + State)

You’ll move faster if you have these ready.

  • Ownership and identity: owner/manager IDs, entity documents (Articles, Operating Agreement/Bylaws), EIN letter.
  • State compliance: Nevada State Business License certificate; Initial/Annual List filing; Nevada Taxation registration confirmation.
  • Location documents: executed lease or property owner authorization; site plan; parking summary (if requested); home occupation attestation (for home-based).
  • Health and safety (as applicable): SNHD approvals; Certificate of Occupancy; Fire inspection clearance; building/final inspection sign-offs.
  • Industry-specific: contractor’s license; cosmetology/barber shop registration; alcohol server training; security/guard cards; state cannabis/gaming approvals.
  • Financial: business bank letter; surety bond (if required for specific categories); proof of workers’ comp insurance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a document isn’t ready (e.g., C of O), ask whether the City accepts proof of scheduled inspection while your application pends. In privileged cases, partial submissions rarely help—complete packets get prioritized.

Industry-Specific Roadmaps (North Las Vegas Focus)

Below are common business types with their critical first steps, what people miss, and where to get exact requirements.

Restaurants, Cafés, Bars, and Food Trucks

Start with health plan review and location suitability.

  • Confirm your space can handle restaurant loads (grease interceptor, ventilation, ADA). Don’t sign a “vanilla shell” lease without a build-out plan.
  • File SNHD plan review early. You’ll need equipment lists, floor plans, and HACCP (if applicable) approved before opening.
    Official: SNHD — Food Establishment Permits (checked Aug 2025).
  • If serving alcohol, prepare for privileged licensing at the City. Expect background checks, server cards, and council approvals.
  • Food trucks need both SNHD approvals and North Las Vegas licensing. Commissary agreements are commonly required.

Reality check:

  • Health and build-out are your long poles. An “as-is” space that seems cheap can cost more than a turnkey location.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your first site is too costly to build out, consider a shared kitchen or an already-restaurant space with an existing hood/interceptors to shorten the path to opening.

Contractors and Trades

Compliance is two-layered: state plus city.

  • Get your Nevada contractor’s license (classification and monetary limit suited to your work). Jobs $1,000+ or requiring permits demand a license.
    Official: NV State Contractors Board (checked Aug 2025); NRS 624 (checked Aug 2025).
  • Register with NV Taxation (sales/use for materials; other taxes if applicable).
    Official: NV Tax — Registration (checked Aug 2025).
  • Obtain a City of North Las Vegas “out-of-city” or standard license (depending on your location/work). If you’re based elsewhere but working in NLV, you still need the city license for work performed there.
  • Pull building permits through North Las Vegas for any work requiring permits.
    Official: City of North Las Vegas — Building (navigate to Building). Checked Aug 2025.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your license classification doesn’t cover a job, add the correct classification or subcontract to a properly licensed contractor.

Salons, Barbers, Spas, and Body Art

State boards + SNHD + City.

  • Nevada State Board of Cosmetology/Barbers: shop/salon licenses and practitioner licenses.
    Official: NV State Board of Cosmetology (checked Aug 2025).
  • SNHD regulates body art and some personal services.
    Official: SNHD — Body Art (checked Aug 2025).
  • City license requires proof of state/SNHD approvals where applicable and compliance with zoning/parking.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the suite layout doesn’t meet board/SNHD standards, move before you’re locked in. Many owners switch to suite-based salons that meet code out of the box.

Retail, E-commerce, and Warehousing

Sales/use tax + occupancy classification.

  • Register for sales/use tax; e-commerce shipping from NLV still counts.
    Official: NV Tax — Sales & Use (checked Aug 2025).
  • Verify warehouse/retail occupancy and fire egress; racking may require engineering and permits.
  • City license category depends on whether you sell retail, wholesale, or only warehouse.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If customer parking or egress fails code, consider appointment-only retail or a different space with adequate parking ratios.

Childcare and Education Uses

Rules are strict for safety.

  • SNHD and state licensing (if applicable) have space, sanitation, and staffing standards.
    Official: SNHD — Child Care (checked Aug 2025).
  • City zoning may restrict locations (e.g., spacing from certain uses) and require conditional approval.
  • Fire/life-safety upgrades (alarms, exits) are common.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your first site fails spacing or safety, ask Planning for alternative zones or look for purpose-built facilities.

Home-Based Businesses in North Las Vegas

You still need a city license if you operate from your home within city limits.

Key points:

  • You must meet home occupation standards: typically no customer traffic (or very limited), no exterior evidence, no noise, limited deliveries, and compliance with HOA rules if applicable. Confirm current standards.
  • Some uses aren’t permitted at home (auto repair, restaurants, certain personal services). Check before applying.
  • You’ll generally need: State Business License, EIN (if applicable), city home occupation application, and compliance attestation.

Official references:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your use is disallowed at home, consider a small office, a co-working space, or a commercial suite with the correct zoning.

Privileged Licensing (Alcohol, Gaming, Adult-Oriented, Pawn, Security)

These categories require deeper vetting.

What to expect:

  • Owner/manager background checks, fingerprints, financial disclosures.
  • Public notices and City Council/Board approvals.
  • Longer timelines (months), higher fees, and stricter ongoing compliance.
  • Additional state approvals for gaming and cannabis.

Official references:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a background reveals issues, consult a Nevada licensing attorney early. Applicants sometimes restructure ownership or designate qualified managers to satisfy suitability standards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Prevent Them)

  • Signing a lease before verifying zoning and build-out requirements.
    Fix: Get a zoning confirmation and a rough build-out plan reviewed before you sign.
  • Waiting on SNHD until after construction.
    Fix: Start SNHD plan review early so kitchen or floor plans match health code.
  • Assuming “home-based” means no license.
    Fix: File a home occupation application and follow the limits.
  • Misjudging jurisdiction lines.
    Fix: Confirm if your address is North Las Vegas city limits versus Las Vegas, Henderson, or unincorporated Clark County.
  • Skipping state registrations (Taxation, DETR) before city licensing.
    Fix: Complete state steps in SilverFlume first.
  • Undercalculating timelines for privileged licenses.
    Fix: Budget months, not weeks, for background checks and hearings.
  • Incomplete packets.
    Fix: Use the checklist above and ask the City to review your document list before you submit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’ve already made a misstep, own it and ask the agency what precise fix they’ll accept. Many issues are solvable with revised plans or additional documents.

Renewal, Taxes, and Ongoing Compliance

Staying compliant saves you penalties and closures.

  • Nevada State Business License: renew annually—most entities pay 200∗∗;corporationspay∗∗200**; corporations pay **500.
    Official: NV SOS — State Business License (checked Aug 2025).
  • City business license: renew per City schedule for your category; late penalties may apply. Use the City’s online portal when available.
    Official: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (checked Aug 2025).
  • NV Department of Taxation: file sales/use tax returns on your assigned schedule; track Commerce Tax threshold ($4,000,000) and due date (August 14).
    Official: NV Tax — Commerce Tax (checked Aug 2025).
  • Payroll: DETR quarterly filings; workers’ comp policy audits annually.
    Official: DETR — Employer Self Service and DIR — Workers’ Comp (checked Aug 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss a due date, file immediately and request penalty relief with a clear explanation. Keep proof of timely mailing/filing.

Real-World Examples (North Las Vegas Scenarios)

  • Mobile auto detailer based in Las Vegas but working most days in NLV: Needs NV State Business License, NV Tax registration (if selling taxable goods), and a City of North Las Vegas license as an out-of-city business performing work in NLV. If working at customers’ homes, follow noise and water discharge rules; avoid HOA conflicts.
  • Home-based online boutique in NLV: Needs NV State Business License, NV Tax sales/use permit (taxable goods), and a City of NLV home-based license. Must meet home occupation limits (no regular customer traffic, minimal deliveries). If the boutique starts doing frequent local pickups, they may need to move to a small retail/office space.
  • New taquería in a former retail bay: Early SNHD plan review; building permits for hood and grease interceptor; fire clearance; NV Tax registration; City NLV business license; if beer/wine is added, privileged licensing and longer timeline.
  • Small general contractor based in Henderson taking NLV jobs: Must hold the correct NSCB classification/limit and pull NLV building permits for permitted work; must also hold a City of NLV business license for work performed in NLV, even if based elsewhere.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Accessibility (Nevada-Specific Resources)

  • Women-owned businesses
  • Minority-owned businesses
    • Urban Chamber of Commerce (Las Vegas): capacity building, matchmaking.
      Official: Urban Chamber of Commerce Las Vegas (checked Aug 2025).
    • NDOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification for transportation contracts.
      Official: NDOT — DBE Program (checked Aug 2025).
  • Veteran-owned businesses
  • LGBTQ+ owned businesses
    • National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) certification; local networking through Nevada partners.
      Official: NGLCC — Certification (checked Aug 2025).
  • Disabled-owned businesses
  • Immigrant-owned businesses and language access
    • Translation/interpretation often available through agencies and nonprofits.
    • SNHD and the City provide multilingual resources for many services; request language assistance when booking appointments.
    • Free business advising in multiple languages may be available through Nevada SBDC and community groups.
      Official: Nevada SBDC (checked Aug 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re hitting barriers (language, forms, certification confusion), ask for language access services at the specific agency and reach out to the Nevada SBDC or Nevada Women’s Business Center for hands-on help. For contracting, the Nevada APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) can guide you (official, checked Aug 2025).

Side-by-Side: Which License Do I Need Where?

Many businesses get tripped up by boundaries. Use this table to aim at the right office first.

Where you’re located Where you work License you need Where to apply
Inside City of North Las Vegas Inside NLV City of North Las Vegas license City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing
Outside NLV (e.g., Henderson) Inside NLV City of North Las Vegas license (out-of-city) City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing
Inside unincorporated Clark County Inside unincorporated Clark County Clark County license Clark County Business License
Inside City of Las Vegas Inside City of Las Vegas City of Las Vegas license City of Las Vegas — Business
Inside Henderson Inside Henderson City of Henderson license Henderson — Business Licenses

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your work crosses borders (e.g., a mobile business), you may need multiple city/county licenses. Call each jurisdiction to confirm.

FAQs (Nevada- and North Las Vegas–Specific)

  • Do I need a North Las Vegas license if I’m based in Henderson but do jobs in NLV?
    Yes. If you perform work inside NLV, the City requires a license for work performed there. Apply via the City’s Business Licensing portal.
    Source: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (checked Aug 2025).
  • How much is the Nevada State Business License?
    Most entities pay 200∗∗annually;for−profitcorporationspay∗∗200** annually; for-profit corporations pay **500.
    Source: NV SOS — State Business License (checked Aug 2025).
  • When is the Nevada Commerce Tax due, and does it apply to me?
    Only if your Nevada gross revenue exceeds $4,000,000 in the fiscal year. The return is due by August 14 each year for the previous fiscal year.
    Source: NV Department of Taxation — Commerce Tax (checked Aug 2025).
  • I’m selling online from my home in NLV. Do I need sales tax registration?
    If you sell taxable goods to Nevada customers, yes. Register with NV Taxation via SilverFlume.
    Source: NV Department of Taxation — Business Registration (checked Aug 2025).
  • Do I need health permits for a coffee cart or food truck?
    Yes. SNHD permits are required, with plan review and commissary requirements.
    Source: SNHD — Food Establishment Permits (checked Aug 2025).
  • What if I’m a one-person LLC with no employees—do I need DETR payroll registration?
    No, not until you pay wages to employees.
    Source: DETR — Employer Self Service (checked Aug 2025).
  • How long does a simple city license take?
    If all documents are complete and no special approvals are needed, often within weeks. Privileged licenses take months. For your category’s timing, contact Business Licensing at City Hall 702-633-1000.
    Source: City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (checked Aug 2025).
  • Is a DBA (fictitious firm name) required?
    If you operate under a name different from your legal entity name, you may need a fictitious firm name filing. In Clark County, DBAs are filed with the County Clerk.
    Official: Clark County Clerk — Fictitious Firm Name (checked Aug 2025). Confirm current fees on the official page.
  • Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy to get my city license?
    If you occupy a commercial space, yes—after inspections are complete.
    Source: City of North Las Vegas — Building Safety (checked Aug 2025).
  • Are there fee waivers or discounts?
    The State Business License has statutory exemptions (e.g., certain nonprofits, government). City fees are set by ordinance; ask the City about any current relief or credits for your category.
    Sources: NV SOS — State Business License exemptions and City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (checked Aug 2025).

Step-by-Step Checklist (Condensed)

  • Verify address, zoning, and allowed use with the City.
  • Form your entity and get your Nevada State Business License on SilverFlume.
  • Get your EIN (IRS).
  • Register with NV Taxation (sales/use, other taxes) and DETR (if hiring).
  • Secure SNHD permits and complete plan review (if applicable).
  • Pull building permits; complete inspections; obtain Certificate of Occupancy.
  • Apply for City of North Las Vegas business license; upload all proofs.
  • For privileged categories, complete background packets and attend hearings.
  • Open bank accounts; set up accounting and payroll; get workers’ comp.
  • Mark renewals on your calendar (State Business License, City license, taxes).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a step stalls, contact the listed agency and ask for a status check and a single point of contact. Use Nevada SBDC advisors to help sequence tasks and draft appeals/corrections.

“What If I’m Not in North Las Vegas?” (Regional Reality Check)

The Las Vegas Valley is a patchwork of jurisdictions. Your licensing office depends on your physical address and where you perform work.

If you regularly work in multiple cities, you may need multiple licenses.

Extra Tips That Save Time and Money

  • Get a pre-application meeting with the City if your use is complex. Coming in once with the full team (planning, building, fire) can shave weeks.
  • Ask landlords for “permit-ready” concessions in your lease (e.g., time for plan review, termination rights if zoning fails, landlord to deliver minimum power/venting).
  • Set alerts for all recurring filings: State Business License renewal, city license renewal, NV Tax returns, DETR filings.
  • Use the same legal name/addresses everywhere (state, tax, city, SNHD) to avoid mismatches.
  • Keep a “compliance binder” (digital is fine) with all approvals, permits, inspection cards, and renewal dates.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you inherited a mess (previous owner didn’t close out permits), request a records search from the City, SNHD, and Fire to learn what’s open. Clean up old items before your new inspections.

About Fees: Where Exact Numbers Live (and Why They Vary)

City business license fees are set by ordinance and category. Many categories in North Las Vegas have unique base fees, plus increments based on gross receipts, number of employees, or activity. Privileged categories add investigation/background fees and may have higher renewal fees.

Because these schedules update, the City posts the current fees by category. Always confirm at the time you apply:

Tables You Can Use During Your Setup

Table: Your First 10 Calls/Clicks

Need Who Best Link/Phone
Confirm zoning and allowed use City of North Las Vegas Planning City of North Las Vegas — Planning (navigate to Planning) or call City Hall at 702-633-1000
Start state filings (entity + SBL) NV Secretary of State SilverFlume
Sales/use tax, Commerce Tax NV Department of Taxation Business Registration
EIN IRS Apply for an EIN
Unemployment Insurance (if hiring) DETR Employer Online Services
Health permits SNHD Permits & Licensing — main line 702-759-1000
Building permits City of NLV Building Building Safety
Fire prevention City of NLV Fire Fire Prevention
Contractor licensing NV State Contractors Board NSCB — So. NV 702-486-1100
Free advisor Nevada SBDC Find a Location

Table: Documents to Have Ready

Area Documents
Identity & entity Government ID(s); Articles; Operating Agreement/Bylaws; EIN letter
State compliance State Business License; Initial/Annual List; NV Tax registrations
Premises Lease; landlord authorization; site plan; parking summary
Health & safety SNHD plan approval/permit; building permits; inspection sign-offs; Certificate of Occupancy; fire clearance
Industry-specific Contractor’s license; cosmetology/barber registrations; alcohol server training; guard cards; state-level approvals
Insurance Workers’ comp policy; general liability; surety bonds (if required)

Table: When to Apply (Sequencing)

Task Do This Before Reason
Zoning verification Any lease signing Avoids unusable spaces
SNHD plan review Final build-out decisions Health code drives layout
Building permits Ordering build-out Work cannot start without permits
State registrations City license application City needs proof of state compliance
City license Advertising/opening You need the license to operate

Table: Privileged vs Non-Privileged Differences

Item Non-Privileged (e.g., office, retail) Privileged (e.g., alcohol, gaming)
Background checks Usually none or minimal Extensive (owners, managers)
Public hearing Rare Common
Timeline Weeks Months
Fees Standard Higher (investigation + license)
Approvals needed City + state basics City privileged + possibly state boards

Table: Sales/Use Tax vs Commerce Tax (Nevada)

Tax Who When Key Number
Sales/Use Tax Sellers of taxable goods/services Ongoing filing as assigned Rate varies by locality; see NV Tax Rates
Commerce Tax Businesses with Nevada gross revenue above threshold Annually, due by August 14 Threshold $4,000,000

What To Do If Something Goes Sideways (By Stage)

  • Location and zoning blocked your use
    • Ask Planning about a conditional use or alternative zones. Consider a different site or a limited version of your use that’s permitted.
  • State filings rejected
    • Correct the specific rejection reason and refile. Consider a quick consult with a Nevada business attorney for complex ownership structures.
  • SNHD plan review delays
    • Request a plan review meeting. Hire a designer who knows SNHD requirements.
  • Building permit or inspection holds
    • Schedule a field meeting with inspector/plan reviewer and your contractor to resolve comments quickly.
  • City license hung up
    • Ask for the exact code citation and a clear list of fixes. Provide complete, labeled documents to avoid piecemeal rejections.
  • Cash flow vs timeline
    • Negotiate rent abatement while permits are pending. Consider opening in phases (non-privileged first, alcohol later) if allowed.
  • Privileged license issues
    • Consult a licensing attorney. Consider adding a qualified manager or adjusting ownership to address suitability concerns.

About This Guide

  • Purpose: Give North Las Vegas founders the exact steps, agencies, documents, and up-to-date official sources needed to legally open and stay compliant.
  • Sources: We only cite official government or well-established organizations and include direct links. All sources were checked August 2025.
  • How to keep it current: Rules and fees change. Always double-check the linked official pages for the latest forms, fees, and deadlines before you file or pay.

If you need a version of this guide customized to your industry and address, ask for a checklist tailored to your use, and include your planned address and business type.

Disclaimer

This guide is informational and not legal, tax, or financial advice. Program details, fees, policies, and statutes can change at any time. Always verify requirements, amounts, and deadlines with the City of North Las Vegas, the Nevada Secretary of State, the Nevada Department of Taxation, SNHD, and any other relevant agencies before you apply or pay fees. If you have specific legal or tax questions, consult a licensed Nevada attorney or CPA.