Bismarck, ND Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick help (save these)

• City of Bismarck — main site (departments, permits, contacts) — official portal for city licensing, zoning, inspections, and contact directory.
• North Dakota Secretary of State — FirstStop business portal — register your LLC/corporation/DBA, contractors license, and more.
• North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — business taxes — sales/use tax permits, local tax lookups, and filing.
• Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) — workers’ comp — required before you hire employees in North Dakota.
• Job Service North Dakota — employer accounts (unemployment insurance) — set up your UI employer account and learn reporting rules.
• Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health — food/environmental health — find food service licenses/inspections for restaurants, food trucks, caterers.
• Internal Revenue Service — apply for an EIN (free) — federal tax ID; fee is $0.
• City of Bismarck Code of Ordinances (Municode) — definitions, zoning rules, license requirements by ordinance.
• North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle (dealers/transporters) — auto dealer, transporter, and related licensing.
• SBA North Dakota District Office — counseling and training — free help on planning, permits, financing; find the ND office from SBA’s site directory.

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What you need to know first (reality checks)

• There is no single “universal business license” in Bismarck or North Dakota. You may need city permits, state registrations, and sometimes federal compliance — all from different offices. Source: North Dakota Secretary of State — FirstStop.
• North Dakota’s state sales tax is 5%. Bismarck also has a local sales tax. Always confirm the current total rate for your exact location and business type using the state’s tools. Source: ND Tax — Sales & Use Tax.
• If you will hire employees, you must open workers’ compensation coverage with WSI and an unemployment insurance employer account with Job Service ND before you run payroll. Sources: WSI, Job Service ND.
• Food, alcohol, tobacco, childcare, auto dealers, contractors, and many other industries have special licensing or inspections. Start with zoning and location verification first — then apply for the specific permit you actually need. Sources: City of Bismarck, ND SOS FirstStop.
• Do not sign a lease or buy equipment before you confirm your use is allowed in that location and you understand your timeline for inspections and approvals. Plan for weeks, not days, if you need construction, plan review, or fire/health inspections.
• Numbers and requirements change. Always verify fees, rates, and deadlines directly at the official source links in this guide. If you don’t see a dollar amount here, check the linked page for the current fee schedule or contact the office listed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re stuck or get conflicting answers, call the main City of Bismarck line via the city website directory and ask for the specific licensing division, or start with ND SOS FirstStop for state-level registrations. For federal tax questions, use the IRS EIN page or call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line (find it at IRS Contact). If you need a second opinion, the SBA North Dakota District Office can point you to free advisors (SBDC, SCORE) via SBA.gov.

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Who does what in Bismarck: the fast map

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the agency’s main page above and the site search to find the application form you need. If you can’t locate it, use the agency’s contact directory on the same domain (city or state). When in doubt, submit a written email inquiry through the site’s contact form so you have a record.

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Step-by-step: the order that avoids rework

• Confirm zoning/location with the City of Bismarck Planning/Community Development.
• Pick your business structure and register with the ND Secretary of State via FirstStop (LLC, corporation, or register a trade name if a sole proprietor or partnership).
• Get your IRS EIN (fee $0), even if you’re a single-member LLC — it simplifies banking and payroll later.
• Open a business bank account using your filed entity documents and EIN.
• Apply for your ND sales/use tax permit (and any other tax accounts you need) with the Office of State Tax Commissioner.
• If you will have employees, open your WSI workers’ comp account and your Job Service ND unemployment insurance account.
• For food, childcare, alcohol, auto sales, contracting, and other regulated activities: apply for the specific city and state licenses/inspections you need (health, fire, building, state board).
• Schedule inspections (building, fire, health) and finish any required plan reviews before you open.
• If you’ll have a sign or remodel: pull the building/sign permits first to avoid delays.
• Keep a simple compliance calendar: sales tax filing due dates, annual reports (if any), license renewals, inspection schedules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which step comes first for your situation, contact the City of Bismarck planning/building team through the city website and ask for a pre-application check, or book time with the SBA/SBDC via SBA.gov to walk through your specific plan and location.

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City of Bismarck licenses and permits (what most owners really need)

Start with zoning and the actual address. Many issues come from picking a site that isn’t allowed for your use.

• Verify zoning and permitted use for your address. Use the City of Bismarck Planning/Community Development pages from bismarcknd.gov or review the City Code on zoning (Municode). Ask about parking, hours, outdoor seating, noise, drive-thru, or storage rules.
• If home-based, review “home occupation” rules. Most cities limit on-site customers, signage, and employees at a home. See the home occupation standards in the Bismarck Code of Ordinances.
• Food service (restaurants, food trucks, caterers) typically need plan review, a food establishment license, and inspections by Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. Start early. Use the Public Health section on bismarcknd.gov.
• Alcohol sales require a city license class (on-sale/off-sale, beer/wine/liquor, special events). The city regulates location rules, distances from sensitive uses, and license caps/renewals. See licenses on bismarcknd.gov and review state-level compliance on ND.gov portals.
• Tobacco retail licenses are city-issued in many ND cities. Check the City’s licensing list at bismarcknd.gov.
• Building permits are needed for remodeling, new construction, and most signage. Fire inspection and a certificate of occupancy may be required before opening.
• Transient merchants, peddlers, mobile vendors, and taxis/for-hire vehicles usually need a city license. Confirm the exact category that fits your business.

Table: Common City of Bismarck licenses/permits (check the city site for current fees and forms)

Reality checks:

• Health plan review can add weeks. Order equipment after you know your layout is acceptable.
• Alcohol licenses can be limited by code and may require public hearings or specific notice timelines.
• Food trucks need a legal commissary/base and may need additional fire safety approvals.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t find a city form, go to bismarcknd.gov and use the site search for “Business License,” “Environmental Health,” “Alcohol,” or “Permits,” or use the site’s department directory to call the correct division. If your location is the problem, ask Planning for alternative zoning districts or a conditional use path (if available in code).

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State of North Dakota registrations and licenses you’re likely to need

Table: State-level registrations for most Bismarck businesses

Industry licensing highlights (state-level):

• Contractors: North Dakota requires a contractor’s license from the Secretary of State above a low dollar threshold per project/year. Class limits (A/B/C/D) and fees change — verify on FirstStop. Do not start work or advertise without it.
• Auto dealers: ND DOT Motor Vehicle Division licenses dealers and transporters. Requirements often include a business location, signage, dealer plate limits, and a surety bond. See NDDOT.
• Child care: ND Department of Health & Human Services licenses child care centers and in-home providers. Expect background checks, capacity limits, staff-to-child ratios, and inspections. See ND HHS.
• Professional services: Many professions (architects, engineers, real estate brokers, appraisers, barbers/cosmetologists, accountants, medical, etc.) require a North Dakota board license. Begin at ND.gov and search for your profession’s board.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use FirstStop to search licensing by keyword (e.g., “contractor,” “transient merchant”). If your industry isn’t clearly listed, email the SOS helpdesk from the portal and ask which agency regulates your field. For tax account questions, message the Tax Commissioner via tax.nd.gov.

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Federal basics (only if they apply to you)

• EIN (Federal Tax ID): Apply online. Fee is $0. Source: IRS EIN — official.
• Alcohol, tobacco, firearms manufacturers/dealers: Federal licensing can apply, separate from city/state rules. Start with the agency (TTB or ATF) and then match city/state licensing. See TTB.gov and ATF.gov.
• Food manufacturing/interstate distribution: FDA registration may apply if you manufacture/process certain foods for interstate commerce. See FDA — Food Facility Registration.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure whether a federal license applies, describe your operation in writing and submit a pre-application inquiry to the relevant agency’s contact form. Keep a copy of their reply.

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Taxes you should plan for (and where to confirm)

Table: Sales and local taxes relevant to Bismarck

Reality checks:

• Filing frequency for sales tax depends on your volume and ND Tax assignment. Missing filings can lead to penalties even if you owe $0.
• If you make deliveries outside Bismarck (or out of state), destination-based tax rules can change your rate or filing obligations. Confirm using ND Tax tools.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use ND Tax’s online contact form from tax.nd.gov and provide your NAICS code, product list, and where you sell/deliver. Ask for written guidance on taxability and filing frequency.

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Location and zoning in Bismarck: do this before you sign a lease

Most common derailers: wrong zone, insufficient parking, tenant improvements requiring unexpected construction, and missing fire code items.

• Verify your use at the exact address with Planning/Community Development via the city site. Ask for written confirmation that your use is permitted or what approvals you’ll need.
• Ask about parking minimums, outdoor seating, drive-thru rules, loading/unloading, hours, and noise restrictions.
• If you’ll remodel, get a rough permit path from Building Inspections before you negotiate tenant improvement allowances with the landlord.
• Don’t order signs before you review the sign code and permit process.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your use is not permitted by right, ask whether a conditional use permit or variance exists in the Bismarck Code. If not, consider a different site or a different operational model (e.g., pickup-only, limited hours). Use Municode — Bismarck to read the applicable section and then confirm the process with staff.

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Home-based business in Bismarck: rules to watch

• Home occupation rules typically limit customer visits, signage, employees, storage, noise, and parking. Check the Bismarck Code of Ordinances for home occupation standards.
• Some activities (auto repair, hazardous materials, on-site retail with foot traffic) may be restricted at a home.
• Even if you’re home-based, state tax rules, WSI, UI, and professional licensing can still apply.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your plan doesn’t fit home occupation rules, consider a small commercial or flex-space lease, a shared kitchen (for food businesses), or renting a private office in a mixed-use building zoned correctly.

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Industry spotlights (what typically applies in Bismarck)

Table: Common industries and where to start

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your business doesn’t fit neatly into a listed category, email the City Clerk (via the city directory) and the ND SOS (via FirstStop) with a short description to get routed to the correct licensing authority.

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Real-world examples (Bismarck-focused)

Example A: Coffee shop on a neighborhood commercial corridor

• Confirm zoning for a cafe at the address (ask about outdoor seating and parking).
• Plan review with Public Health for the kitchen layout and equipment list.
• Building permit for any remodel and for signage; schedule fire inspection.
• Get state sales tax account; register entity via FirstStop; get EIN ($0).
• If you will serve beer/wine, apply for the correct city alcohol license and allow time for hearings/approvals.
• Hire staff only after you open WSI and Job Service employer accounts.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the site lacks required parking or doesn’t allow your use, look for a location in a district that permits restaurants by right, or modify to a pickup-only model with smaller seating (ask Planning if that helps).

Example B: Residential remodeling contractor

• Register a business entity (LLC recommended by many owners for liability separation; consult a professional). File at FirstStop.
• Apply for the ND contractor’s license at FirstStop. Confirm which class matches your project sizes and pay the current fee. Do not bid or advertise before the license is issued.
• Get WSI coverage. Some trades with higher risk have higher premium classes — budget for it.
• Pull building permits per job and pass inspections.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If class limits are too low for your target projects, apply to upgrade your class through the SOS. If WSI premiums are a concern, implement safety programs and ask WSI about loss-control credits.

Example C: Food truck serving lunch downtown

• Verify commissary/base of operations as required by Public Health.
• Submit menu, equipment list, and layout for plan review; schedule inspections.
• Clarify where you can and cannot park or vend — city rules may limit locations or times.
• Get sales tax permit and entity registration; EIN ($0).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If parking or location is the blocker, coordinate with private lots or events, or switch to catering/preorder events while you work with the city on mobile vending permissions.

Example D: Single-member LLC consultant (home office)

• Check home occupation rules (client meetings at home may be limited). Consider meeting clients in shared offices.
• Register LLC at FirstStop, get EIN ($0), and set up a sales tax account only if your services are taxable under ND rules (ask ND Tax in writing).
• No city “general license” is usually needed; still confirm with the city directory if unsure.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you need occasional client visits and your home rules don’t allow it, rent a small office or use a coworking space.

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Timelines and expectations (don’t cut it too close)

Table: Typical timelines (your mileage may vary — always verify)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you have a go-live date, reverse-plan and ask each office for the realistic processing window in writing. If a step is delayed, reprioritize tasks that can proceed (e.g., tax accounts, hiring pipeline) while you wait.

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Budgeting: common startup compliance costs (varies — check current fees)

Table: Costs to plan for (you must confirm current amounts at the linked sites)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If fees are tight, phase your launch (e.g., start with pickup-only instead of dine-in), seek free consulting via SBA’s partners in ND, and ask WSI and ND Tax about payment or filing options that fit your cash flow.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Signing a lease before verifying zoning, parking, and build-out requirements.
• Starting work (or advertising as a contractor) before you have your ND contractor’s license in the correct class.
• Skipping WSI and Job Service ND setup until after hiring — penalties and stop-work risks aren’t worth it.
• Buying kitchen equipment before health plan approval; layouts often change.
• Assuming your service is non-taxable — ND taxes certain services; confirm with ND Tax.
• Missing local sales/lodging/restaurant special taxes; verify with ND Tax and the city.
• Using the wrong business name without registering a trade name (DBA) with the SOS.
• Not budgeting time for city hearings (alcohol) or construction inspections (CO).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, contact the relevant office now. Voluntary correction typically goes better than waiting for enforcement.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in North Dakota (resources and certifications)

These links point to official or well-established resources that help owners in Bismarck and statewide.

Women-owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses:

• SBA — Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification — federal certification for contracting; includes how to apply and eligibility.
• SBA — 8(a) Business Development Program — nine-year business development program for socially and economically disadvantaged firms.
• SBA — HUBZone Program — certification for firms in Historically Underutilized Business Zones (parts of ND may qualify).

Veteran-owned:

• SBA — Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) — certification for VOSB/SDVOSB; used for federal contracting.

LGBTQ+ owned:

• NGLCC — National LGBT Chamber of Commerce — well-established national certification and supplier diversity network (private certification recognized by many corporations).

Disabled-owned:

• U.S. AbilityOne Program and SBA resources for entrepreneurs with disabilities — federal programs and guidance.

Immigrant-owned, language access:

• SBA — Multilingual resources — find local advisors; many offer translation/interpretation support.
• North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services — statewide services and language access information for public programs; contact to ask about translation/interpretation in licensing contexts.

Government contracting support in ND:

• APEX Accelerators — find your local ND center — free help getting certified and winning government contracts (formerly PTAC).

Local business ecosystem:

• Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC — networking, local advocacy, and community resources.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not sure which certification helps your goals, book an appointment with SBA’s North Dakota team via SBA.gov and ask to be connected to an SBDC counselor for a free assessment.

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Frequently asked questions (North Dakota and Bismarck-focused)

• Do I need a “general” business license to operate in Bismarck?Usually no. Most businesses only need specific city licenses (like alcohol, tobacco, taxi) plus state registrations (entity, tax permits). Always verify via bismarcknd.gov.
• What is North Dakota’s sales tax rate in Bismarck?State rate is 5% plus Bismarck’s local rate. Confirm the exact combined rate using tools at tax.nd.gov. Source: ND Tax.
• How soon should I apply for health permits for a restaurant?As early as possible — expect plan review and inspections. Start with Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health through bismarcknd.gov.
• Is the IRS EIN free?Yes, the fee is $0 when you apply directly at the IRS: IRS EIN Online.
• Do I need a contractor’s license in North Dakota?Yes, above a low project/annual threshold you must be licensed by the ND Secretary of State before bidding or working. Check classes and fees at FirstStop.
• I’m a home-based business. Can clients come to my house?Maybe limited. Check Bismarck’s home occupation rules in the City Code.
• How do I set up workers’ comp and unemployment insurance?Workers’ comp: WSI. Unemployment insurance: Job Service ND. Do this before paying wages.
• Do I need both a city and state alcohol license?City retail licenses are required; state alcohol compliance and taxes also apply. Start with the City Clerk via bismarcknd.gov, then confirm state requirements at ND.gov and tax.nd.gov.
• Are professional services taxed in ND?Some services are taxable. Provide your service description to ND Tax via tax.nd.gov and get written confirmation.
• Where can I get free startup help in Bismarck?Start at SBA.gov to find the North Dakota District Office and local SBDC/SCORE partners. They can help you with licensing steps and financial planning at no cost.

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Contact directory (verify the current phone/email on each official site)

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What to bring: documents and information most applications request

• Your legal business name and formation documents (FirstStop filing receipt or Articles).
• Trade name (DBA) approval if you use a different public name.
• EIN confirmation letter (IRS), Social Security Number for owner(s).
• Ownership structure and percentages; responsible party contact.
• Lease or proof of location; site plan if needed.
• Floor plan/equipment list for food businesses.
• Menu/product list and NAICS code (industry classification) for tax accounts.
• Insurance certificates (general liability, liquor liability if applicable).
• Bond info if your license type requires it (e.g., auto dealer).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t have a document, ask the issuing agency for an official copy or letter. For missing items in plan review, submit partial documents and request a pre-review to avoid rework.

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Filing and renewal calendar (set reminders)

Table: Compliance items to calendar

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you miss a filing, submit it as soon as possible and contact the agency to discuss penalties/interest or payment options. Keep proof of submission.

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If you’re hiring in North Dakota (quick checklist)

• WSI workers’ comp — open account and get your industry classification.
• Job Service ND unemployment insurance — register employer account.
• IRS and ND Tax employer withholding — set up accounts and deposit schedules.
• I-9 employment eligibility and E-Verify (if you participate) — federal compliance.
• ND new hire reporting — required after hiring; confirm the current reporting site via ND’s employer resources on ND.gov.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If payroll deadlines hit before accounts are active, use a reputable payroll provider and ask them to help with temporary filing accommodations, but you are still responsible for compliance.

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What to expect at inspections (food, building, fire)

• Food: Inspectors check food safety controls (temps, handwashing, storage, sanitizer, pest control), equipment, and labeling where applicable. Keep logs and train staff.
• Building: Inspectors verify permitted work matches plans and meets code. Don’t cover work (like walls/ceilings) before the required inspection stage.
• Fire: Expect checks on extinguishers, egress, alarms/sprinklers, hood suppression for kitchens, and storage of combustibles.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you fail an inspection, fix the listed items and ask for a re-inspection date. Keep a copy of the report and reply in writing outlining your corrections.

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Plan B options when a path is blocked

• Wrong zone for your use? Look at other districts or apply for a conditional use if the code allows it. Ask Planning for the realistic timeline.
• Alcohol license unavailable? Consider beer/wine only, a different license class, or a location where quotas haven’t been met.
• Build-out too costly? Switch to a lighter-use model (e.g., coffee kiosk instead of full kitchen) or use a shared commercial kitchen.
• Cash flow tight? Phase opening, rent equipment, or seek local microloans while you finalize permits. The SBA’s lender match tool at SBA.gov can help locate lenders.

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About your business name in North Dakota

• Your legal entity name is what you file at the ND SOS. If you publicly operate with a different name, file a trade name (DBA) at FirstStop.
• City licenses and tax accounts need to match your legal or trade name consistently. Keep your EIN name control consistent for tax reporting.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a name is taken, FirstStop will show conflicts. Pick a distinct name or add a modifier (e.g., “Bismarck,” “ND,” or your niche). Avoid names that imply a license you don’t have (e.g., “Engineering”) without board approval.

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About This Guide

• This guide focuses on Bismarck, North Dakota, and points you to official, primary sources. We avoid making up numbers. Where exact fees or rates are not listed, use the linked official page to confirm current amounts and deadlines.
• Sources cited include: City of Bismarck, ND Secretary of State — FirstStop, ND Office of State Tax Commissioner, Workforce Safety & Insurance, Job Service North Dakota, ND Department of Transportation, ND Department of Health & Human Services, IRS, SBA, and Bismarck Code of Ordinances (Municode). Always verify details on those sites, as they update forms, fees, and processes.

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Disclaimer

• This is general information, not legal, tax, or professional advice. Program rules, fees, taxes, rates, and deadlines change. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the City of Bismarck, State of North Dakota agencies, and the IRS using the official links in this guide before you apply, pay fees, or open your doors.