Burlington, VT Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Business License Guide for Burlington, Vermont (No-Nonsense, Source-Backed)

Last updated: September 2025

  • This is a plain-English, action-first guide for getting legally set up to do business in Burlington, VT. Every claim and figure is sourced to official pages. Where exact fees or timelines couldn’t be verified for 2025, you’ll see “Check [official source] for current amounts.”
  • Read time: about 20–25 minutes. Skim the Quick Help box first, then dive into your situation below.

Quick Help (Start Here)

Do You Need a “Business License” in Burlington?

Start with this reality check: there is no single, universal “business license” in Vermont or Burlington that automatically covers every type of activity. You’ll likely need a mix of:

  • A state-level business registration (LLC, corporation, or assumed business name).
  • State tax registrations (sales & use, meals & rooms, withholding).
  • Local zoning/building/occupancy/fire approvals for your space.
  • State health permits (restaurants, lodging, food trucks, caterers).
  • Liquor licenses (local approval first, then state).
  • Professional or trade licenses (salon, electrician, child care, body art, etc.).

Official sources:

Real world examples

  • A Church Street coffee shop: registers an LLC with the Secretary of State, gets an EIN, registers for sales & use and meals tax, secures zoning approval for the space, obtains building permits (if any), passes fire/life safety inspections, obtains a food service license from the Department of Health, and if serving beer/wine, gets local and state liquor licenses.
  • A home-based graphic designer in the Old North End: may only need an assumed business name, an EIN (if not using SSN with clients), and a local “home occupation” zoning confirmation. No meals/sales tax unless selling taxable goods.
  • A food truck: needs a Health Dept. mobile unit license, sales/meals tax, right-of-way or event permits for where you vend, and fire safety clearances for propane/equipment.
  • A short-term rental host: needs to comply with Burlington zoning and housing rules and register to collect and remit rooms tax (state and Burlington local option).

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re not sure which approvals you need, book a pre-application conversation with Burlington DPI via their contact page: Burlington DPI — Contact & Permits.
  • For multi-step projects (e.g., restaurant with renovations), ask DPI to outline sequencing and inspections so you don’t pay for work twice.
  • If you think you need a state license but can’t identify it, call Vermont’s Small Business Advocate (Secretary of State) via their contact portal on the Corporations page: SOS Corporations — Contact & Support.

One-Page Roadmap (Who to Register With and in What Order)

Step What you do Where to do it Fees/notes Source
1 Choose structure (LLC/corp/sole prop/partnership) and check name availability VT Secretary of State (SOS) Fees vary by entity; check fee schedule SOS — Business Services
2 File formation or assumed business name (DBA) SOS Online Typical online approval is fast; check current times SOS — Online Filings
3 Get EIN IRS EIN is $0; online issuance is typically immediate IRS — Apply for EIN
4 Register for state taxes (sales & use, meals & rooms, withholding) myVTax Sales 6%, meals 9%, rooms 9%, alcohol 10%; Burlington local option +1% VT Taxes — myVTax
5 Confirm local zoning/use and space fit Burlington DPI Required before opening or build-outs Burlington DPI
6 Get building/sign/CO and fire safety clearances Burlington DPI + VT Division of Fire Safety Timelines vary by scope VT Division of Fire Safety
7 Industry licenses (food, lodging, body art, childcare, salons, etc.) VT Dept. of Health, OPR, DCF, etc. Fees vary; do not open before license is issued Health — Food & Lodging
8 Alcohol license (if applicable) Burlington Liquor Control Board, then State DLL Local approval first, then state Liquor Control — Licensing
9 Employer setup VT Dept. of Labor (UI, WC) Required if you hire DOL — Employers
10 Ongoing filings SOS annual reports, tax returns, renewal of licenses Deadlines depend on entity/license SOS — Annual Reports

Step 1: Register Your Business with the Vermont Secretary of State (SOS)

Most Burlington businesses begin by registering with the Vermont Secretary of State unless you’re operating solely under your legal name as a sole proprietor with no assumed name.

  • LLCs/corporations/limited partnerships register their entities.
  • Sole proprietors/partnerships using a business name file an “assumed business name” (DBA).
  • Foreign entities (formed in another state) “qualify” to do business in Vermont.

Official starting point:

Eligibility

  • You must select a unique business name distinguishable in Vermont records. Use the SOS name availability search via the Business Services portal.
  • Certain restricted words (e.g., “bank,” “insurance”) may require approvals.
  • Foreign entities must be in good standing in their home state.

Required documents

  • Formation documents (Articles of Organization for LLC, Articles of Incorporation for corporations), or Assumed Business Name registration.
  • Registered agent information with a Vermont physical address.
  • Principal office and organizer/incorporator details.
  • For foreign qualification: certificate of good standing from home state.

Fees (official amounts)

Vermont posts its fees on the SOS site. For the current fee schedule (formation, assumed name, annual reports, etc.), see:

If you cannot locate the exact amount for your filing type, use the portal’s filing workflow—it displays the current fee before payment. If still unclear: Check Vermont SOS Business Services for current amounts.

How to apply

  • File online through the SOS Business Services portal (fastest).
  • Pay online and receive confirmation via email.
  • Note your annual report due schedule in your SOS online account.

Timelines

  • Online filings are typically processed same day to a few business days, depending on volume. For exact current processing times, check the SOS portal.
  • Paper filings (if allowed) may take longer.

Real-world example

  • A local retailer forms “Green Lake Goods, LLC” online, appoints a registered agent in Burlington, and gets confirmation within 1–3 business days (typical). They then proceed to tax registration.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your name is rejected, try a distinguishable variation or add a unique element.
  • If the online system flags your address or registered agent, contact SOS support via the Business Services page (use the contact link on the page). Or consult Vermont SBDC for step-by-step help: Vermont SBDC (free advising).

Step 2: Get Your EIN (Federal Employer Identification Number)

Even if you are a single-member LLC or sole proprietor, banks and many vendors will ask for an EIN.

  • Apply online at the IRS: Apply for an EIN (official IRS).
  • Cost is $0.
  • Online issuance is typically immediate when the system is available.
  • IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line for EIN help: 800-829-4933 (source: IRS Contact pages).

Required info

  • Legal name and structure exactly as registered with SOS.
  • Responsible party (usually an owner/officer) and SSN/ITIN.
  • Business address.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you get a duplicate EIN error, call the IRS at 800-829-4933.
  • If you formed a multi-member LLC or corporation, avoid using a personal SSN for business tax accounts—get the EIN first, then register with Vermont.

Step 3: Register for Vermont Taxes (Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, Withholding)

If you sell taxable goods, serve prepared food, rent rooms/short-term rentals, or hire employees, you must register with the Vermont Department of Taxes through myVTax.

Rates and Burlington local option tax

  • Vermont Sales & Use Tax: 6% statewide.
  • Meals Tax: 9%.
  • Rooms Tax: 9%.
  • Alcoholic Beverages Tax (by-the-drink): 10%.
  • Burlington imposes a Local Option Tax of 1% on retail sales, meals, rooms, and alcoholic beverages, added on top of the state rates.

Sources:

Eligibility and when to register

  • Register before making your first taxable sale or hiring your first employee.
  • Short-term rental hosts in Burlington must register for Rooms Tax and collect both the state rate (9%) plus Burlington’s local option (1%). See the Meals & Rooms Tax page and Local Option Tax page above.

Required documents

  • EIN (or SSN if sole proprietor without EIN, though EIN is recommended).
  • Legal business name and address as registered with SOS.
  • NAICS (industry) code (the form provides lookup help).

How to apply

  • Create a myVTax account and complete the Business Tax registration.
  • Select the tax types you need (Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, Withholding, etc.).
  • You’ll receive account numbers and filing schedules within your myVTax account.

Filing schedules and timelines

  • Filing frequency (monthly/quarterly/annual) depends on your sales volume; the Department sets it when you register.
  • Filing and payment deadlines are shown in your myVTax account calendar. For official due dates, see Taxpayer Calendars & Due Dates.

Real-world example

  • A South End brewery taproom collects 10% tax on alcoholic beverages and 9% on meals/snacks, plus Burlington’s 1% local option on each. They file and pay through myVTax on the schedule assigned after registration.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re unsure which taxes apply, call Taxpayer Services (see the Department’s contact page for the current phone numbers) or use the myVTax “Send a Message” feature: Vermont Department of Taxes — Contact.
  • For setup mistakes (e.g., you picked Sales & Use but not Meals & Rooms), you can add tax types inside myVTax or request assistance via secure message.

Step 4: Burlington Zoning, Building Permits, Signs, and Certificate of Occupancy

Do not sign a lease or build-out before checking Burlington zoning and code rules. This is where many delays and surprise costs happen.

The critical checks

  • Is your proposed use allowed in that zoning district?
  • Does the space require building/plumbing/electrical permits for your use?
  • Do you need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for your new use?
  • Do your signs meet Burlington sign standards?
  • Will your use trigger state fire/life safety approvals (it often does)?

Required documents

  • Floor plan/site plan (even a basic, scaled plan may be required for review).
  • Lease or owner authorization if you are a tenant.
  • Scope of work for any construction.
  • Sign drawings/specs if installing signage.

How to apply

  • Contact DPI through their permits page to confirm the permit path for your project: Burlington DPI — Permits & Inspections.
  • Submit zoning and building permit applications as directed.
  • Coordinate with the Vermont Division of Fire Safety (state) if your occupancy triggers state review (e.g., restaurants, assembly, lodging): VT Division of Fire Safety.

Timelines

  • Minor permits can often be reviewed in days to a couple of weeks, while larger projects (change of use, build-outs) may take several weeks. Request a timeline estimate from DPI at intake.
  • Inspections must be scheduled; build in several business days buffer for scheduling.

Real-world example

  • A yoga studio moving into a former retail space needs zoning confirmation for the new use, a building permit for minor interior changes, and a new CO. They coordinate with state Fire Safety for occupant load and egress compliance.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If a use isn’t allowed as-of-right, ask DPI about conditional use, variance, or site plan options.
  • If you discover code issues late, request a compliance meeting with DPI and your contractor to map the least-cost path to compliance.
  • If the space simply won’t work, it’s often cheaper to change locations than to force a nonconforming space into compliance.

Step 5: Health Department Licensing for Food, Lodging, and Mobile Units

If you serve food, operate a food truck, cater, or run lodging (hotel, B&B), you must get licensed by the Vermont Department of Health’s Food & Lodging Program. Opening or operating without the state license can result in immediate closure orders.

Eligibility and scope

  • Restaurants, caterers, mobile food units, bed & breakfasts, hotels, and similar operations need a state license.
  • You must meet Vermont health code standards, including food safety, sanitation, equipment, and water/wastewater requirements.

Required documents

  • Application through the Health Department (application forms and instructions on the program page above).
  • Menu and process details may be required.
  • Floor plan/equipment list for new or remodeled facilities.
  • Water/wastewater documentation (especially if using private systems).
  • Proof of local approvals (zoning/CO) may be requested.

How to apply

  • Use the forms and guidance on the Health Department site.
  • Health inspections are required before licensing—schedule early.
  • If you are a mobile unit, ensure propane and fire safety compliance per state rules (coordinate with VT Division of Fire Safety).

Fees and timelines

  • License fees vary by operation type and size. For current fees and processing times, check the program’s “Fees” and “Applications” sections: Food & Lodging Program. If you cannot find exact figures for your category, Check the official website for current amounts.
  • Inspections must be scheduled; allow 2–4 weeks lead time before your planned opening where possible.

Real-world example

  • A Pine Street café adds a small prep kitchen. They submit plans to the Health Department, make required sink and refrigeration upgrades, pass inspection, and receive the food service license. They scheduled their final inspection two weeks before opening to avoid delays.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your facility can’t meet code as designed, ask your inspector for acceptable alternatives or phased compliance options.
  • For water/wastewater constraints, consult the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) permitting links via ANR — Environmental Permits and coordinate changes through your designer.

Step 6: Alcohol Licensing (Local and State)

To sell or serve alcohol in Burlington, there’s a two-step process:

  1. Local approval by the Burlington Board of Liquor Control (City Council acting as Liquor Control Board), and
  2. State licensing by the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (Division of Liquor Control).

Eligibility

  • Proper zoning/use approvals for your premises.
  • Responsible party(ies) pass required training and meet suitability standards.
  • For on-premise consumption, you’ll pursue first-class licenses; for retail sales, second-class; spirits service requires third-class. See state site for definitions.

Required documents

  • Completed local applications and any required plans or diagrams.
  • Proof of premises control (lease/deed).
  • Server training certificates (as applicable).
  • State applications with local approval endorsements.

How to apply

  • Contact the Burlington licensing office via the link above for local application steps and meeting schedules.
  • After local approval, complete the state application per instructions on the Liquor Control site.

Fees and timelines

  • Fees vary by license class and population bracket; both local and state fees apply. For exact, current amounts, see state fee schedules and ask Burlington’s licensing office to quote local fees: Liquor Control — Licensing and Burlington Licensing. If you cannot find the specific figures for your license class, Check the official website for current amounts.
  • Build in time for local board agendas and state processing—often 2–6 weeks depending on schedules.

Real-world example

  • A wine bar near the waterfront obtains local first-class approval at a scheduled board meeting, then submits the state application. Their opening shifts by three weeks to align with the board meeting date—planning around public meeting calendars is key.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your local approval is delayed, ask to be placed on the next board agenda and confirm deadlines for complete packets.
  • If your state application is held, call the licensing specialist listed on your application receipt (contact details are provided by the state upon submission).

Step 7: Industry- and Profession-Specific Licensing

Vermont regulates a number of occupations and businesses. Common examples that affect Burlington small businesses:

Activity License/Program Where to apply Notes/Fees Source
Cosmetology/Barbering/Salon Shop Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) Vermont OPR Individual and shop licenses; fees vary by profession OPR Professions
Body Art (Tattoo/Piercing) Vermont Dept. of Health VDH — Body Art Health license and facility requirements VDH — Programs
Child Care (Center/Family) DCF — Child Development Division Vermont CDD Licensing standards and inspections CDD — Licensing
Food Manufacturer/Wholesale Vermont Agency of Agriculture (as applicable) VAAFM Specialty foods, maple, dairy — additional rules Agency of Agriculture
Electrical/Plumbing Trades State licensing (DFS/OPR Boards) VT Division of Fire Safety / OPR Trade licenses required for permitted work State boards
Waste/Stormwater (if applicable) Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) ANR — Environmental Permits Site-specific permits (grease, wastewater, etc.) ANR

For each, follow the links to find eligibility rules, required documents, and current fees. Many have pre-inspection requirements and specific equipment standards.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re stuck between agencies (e.g., food manufacturing vs. restaurant), email both programs with a one-page summary of your process flow and ask who is the “lead” regulator.
  • Ask Vermont SBDC for help mapping regulatory pathways at no cost: Vermont SBDC.

Step 8: Hiring Employees in Vermont

If you’ll have employees in Burlington, you must set up employer accounts and coverage. Skipping this can cause back taxes, penalties, or stop-work orders.

Employer registrations you likely need

Required documents

  • EIN, SOS registration details.
  • Payroll setup info (pay periods, pay dates).
  • Workers’ comp policy binder or proof of exemption as allowed by Vermont law.

Timelines and payroll starts

  • UI and withholding registrations can often be completed within a few business days.
  • Workers’ comp policy binding can be same day to several days, depending on underwriting.

Real-world example

  • A boutique on Pine Street with 3 part-time staff registers for UI and withholding, binds a workers’ comp policy, and sets up payroll to file returns on the assigned schedule in myVTax.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t get a workers’ comp policy due to risk classification, contact the assigned risk market through your insurance broker.
  • For UI questions (rate class, successorship), use the employer contact on the DOL UI page: DOL — Employers (UI).

Step 9: Home-Based Businesses in Burlington

Home occupations are allowed with limits. Always confirm rules before you start seeing clients at home or post signage.

Key points to check

  • Whether client visits, employees, or deliveries are allowed in your district.
  • Parking and noise limits.
  • Sign rules (often very limited for residences).
  • Whether your activity triggers Health Department or state licensing (e.g., home bakery, daycare).

Required documents

  • Simple sketch of the area used in the home.
  • Description of business activity and traffic.
  • Any required state permits (e.g., cottage food operations may have specific requirements).

How to apply

  • Contact DPI with your address and business description for a home occupation determination. They will tell you whether you need a zoning permit or written confirmation.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your activity is not allowed as a home occupation, consider:
    • Leasing a compliant commercial space.
    • Using shared kitchens/commissaries for food prep and doing deliveries or pop-ups.
    • Renting co-working space for client meetings.

Taxes You’ll Likely Encounter in Burlington (At a Glance)

Tax Rate Who pays/collects Where you register/file Source
Sales & Use Tax 6% Collected on taxable goods and certain services Register/file via myVTax VT Taxes — Sales & Use
Meals Tax 9% Collected on prepared food myVTax VT Taxes — Meals & Rooms
Rooms Tax 9% Collected on room/short-term rental charges myVTax VT Taxes — Meals & Rooms
Alcohol (by the drink) 10% Bars/restaurants on beverage sales myVTax VT Taxes — Meals & Rooms
Burlington Local Option 1% Added to sales, meals, rooms, alcohol myVTax (same filing) VT Taxes — Local Option
Withholding varies Employer on employee wages myVTax VT Taxes — Withholding
Unemployment Insurance varies Employer VT DOL VT DOL — Employers

Documents Checklist (Keep These Handy)

Category Documents
Identity & Formation SOS formation approval or DBA certificate; EIN letter; registered agent info
Location & Use Lease/owner authorization; floor plans; zoning/building permits; CO; fire safety approvals
Taxes myVTax account confirmation; tax account numbers; filing frequency/calendar
Industry Licenses Health Department license (food/lodging/mobile); liquor approvals; professional/trade licenses
Insurance General liability; workers’ comp (if applicable); liquor liability (if applicable)
Operations Menu/process sheets (food); equipment lists; safety procedures; employee training certificates

Realistic Timelines (Plan Backwards from Opening)

Approval Typical lead time When to start Notes
SOS registration Same day to a few business days Before signing leases Online is fastest
EIN Immediate online After SOS filing Free
myVTax registration 1–3 business days for account setup Before first sale Filing schedule assigned
Zoning/building permits 1–6+ weeks depending on scope Before lease build-out Engage DPI early
Fire Safety review 2–4+ weeks depending on project In design phase Coordinate with CO
Health Dept license 2–4+ weeks including scheduling Before opening Requires final inspection
Liquor license (local+state) 2–6 weeks depending on meeting calendars Before opening Local approval first
Employer accounts (UI/WC) Same day to several days Before first payroll Insurance underwriting can add time

Always confirm current times with the agency; public meeting schedules (for liquor) and inspection calendars can be the critical path.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

  • Signing a lease before confirming zoning and code. Fix: email DPI with the full address, intended use, and a simple floor plan to confirm feasibility.
  • Forgetting Burlington’s 1% local option tax. Fix: add it to your pricing and point-of-sale setup from day one; file it alongside state tax in myVTax.
  • Starting food operations without Health Department approval. Fix: submit applications early, schedule inspections, and don’t buy equipment that isn’t code-compliant.
  • Assuming liquor approval is “over the counter.” Fix: plan around local board meeting dates; build 2–6 weeks into your schedule.
  • Not securing workers’ comp when adding your first employee. Fix: bind a policy before the first payroll.
  • Using a home kitchen for wholesale distribution without the right license. Fix: verify with Health Department; consider a shared commercial kitchen.
  • Missing annual filings with the Secretary of State. Fix: set calendar reminders and verify deadlines in your SOS account.
  • Skipping signage permits. Fix: submit sign specs to DPI; unpermitted signs can be fined or removed.
  • Building without permits. Fix: stop work, apply for permits, and be ready for a corrective inspection.
  • Not collecting rooms tax for short-term rentals. Fix: register in myVTax and update your booking platform settings to collect both state and local option taxes.

Burlington “Reality Checks” (Costs, Rules, and Things that Slow You Down)

  • Build-outs and code upgrades can cost more than you think. Old buildings often need electrical, plumbing, or egress improvements.
  • Health and Fire approvals are separate from local building permits—both must sign off before food/lodging or assembly uses open.
  • Alcohol licensing depends on board calendars; your target opening date must bend to meeting schedules.
  • POS systems need correct tax tables (state + Burlington’s 1%). Test receipts before opening.
  • Hiring: payroll, UI, and workers’ comp must be in place by your first payroll run.

Ongoing Compliance: Renewals, Reports, and Inspections

  • Secretary of State Annual/Biennial Reports: Due annually for most entities. Your exact deadline appears in your SOS account. Check: SOS — Business Services. If you cannot find your due date, log in to your SOS account for the current deadline.
  • Vermont Department of Taxes: File sales/meals/rooms/withholding returns on your assigned schedule. myVTax sends reminders. myVTax.
  • Health Department: Food/lodging licenses renew annually with inspections as required. See your license materials and Food & Lodging.
  • Liquor: Licenses renew annually; maintain server training as required. Liquor Control — Licensing.
  • Workers’ Comp and UI: Keep policies current; file wage reports/taxes per DOL schedules. VT DOL — Employers.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you miss a filing, file as soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest.
  • If your Health or Liquor license lapses, stop regulated activity and contact the agency about reinstatement steps and any late fees.
  • SOS reinstatements may require extra fees and filings—log into your SOS account for entity-specific instructions.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Accessibility: Vermont & Burlington Resources

Vermont has programs, certifications, and support for diverse entrepreneurs. These can open contracting and funding doors.

How to apply or get certified

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re not ready for certification, use SBDC and CWE to prep your books and operations; certification is easier when your paperwork is tight.
  • For English-language assistance, ask AALV or USCRI Vermont for interpretation and business class options.

Mini-Playbooks (By Business Type)

Coffee Shop or Café in Burlington

  • Register LLC/corp with SOS; get EIN.
  • Register for sales & use and meals tax in myVTax; add Burlington 1% local option.
  • Confirm zoning/use with DPI; get building permits and CO.
  • Apply for Health food service license; schedule inspection.
  • If serving beer/wine: get local and state liquor licenses.
  • Set up workers’ comp and UI if hiring.
  • Test POS tax rates on receipts: meals 9% + Burlington 1%; alcohol 10% + 1%.
  • If using sidewalk seating, ask DPI about right-of-way or outdoor seating approvals.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your target location needs major code upgrades (ventilation, grease, egress), ask the landlord to share costs or choose a space that already housed food service.

Food Truck

  • Register with SOS (if needed) and get EIN.
  • Register for meals/sales tax in myVTax.
  • Obtain Health Dept. mobile unit license; confirm commissary requirements if applicable.
  • Confirm local permissions for vending locations and events with Burlington DPI or event organizers.
  • Ensure propane and fire safety compliance per VT Division of Fire Safety.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t secure a regular vending spot downtown, focus on events/festivals and private catering while building a location rotation.

Short-Term Rental (STR)

  • Register for Rooms Tax via myVTax; collect state 9% + Burlington 1% on stays.
  • Confirm Burlington STR zoning and housing rules for your property type with DPI.
  • Verify life-safety requirements (smoke/CO alarms, egress).

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your unit doesn’t qualify under local rules, consider long-term rental or hosting in your primary residence (if allowed) instead of a separate unit.

Budgeting Snapshot (Use Official Rates Where Available)

Cost Area What to expect Where to verify
Entity filing Formation and annual report fees depend on entity. SOS — Business Services
EIN $0 IRS — Apply EIN
Sales/meals/rooms taxes Use official rates in your POS: sales 6%, meals 9%, rooms 9%, alcohol 10%, plus Burlington 1% local option. VT Taxes — Rates
Health license Varies by operation; plan check and inspection required. VDH — Food & Lodging
Liquor license Local + state fees; timeline depends on board schedules. Liquor Control — Licensing
Permitting/build-out Highly variable; request a DPI pre-application meeting to scope requirements. Burlington DPI
Insurance General liability, workers’ comp (if employees), liquor liability (if serving). Your broker; VT DOL — WC

Getting Help (Government and Nonprofit Support)

Organization What they do How to contact
Burlington Department of Permitting & Inspections (DPI) Zoning, building, CO, local permit guidance Burlington DPI
Vermont Secretary of State — Business Services Entity filings, annual reports SOS Corporations
Vermont Department of Taxes myVTax registration, tax filing VT Taxes — Business
Vermont Division of Fire Safety Fire/life safety codes, inspections VT DFS
Vermont Dept. of Health — Food & Lodging Food/lodging licensing & inspections VDH — Food & Lodging
VT Dept. of Labor UI, workers’ comp DOL — Employers
VT SBDC Free 1:1 advising Vermont SBDC
SBA Vermont District Financing, certifications, counseling SBA Vermont
CWE Vermont (WBC) Women-focused training/advising CWE Vermont
VTrans DBE DBE certification for transportation contracting VTrans DBE Center
USCRI Vermont / AALV Immigrant/refugee support, language access USCRI VT / AALV

10 Vermont-Specific FAQs (Fast Answers, Official Links)

  • Do I need a general business license in Burlington?
    There is no blanket “general business license.” You must register your entity or DBA with SOS and then obtain the specific tax registrations and permits for your activity (zoning, Health, liquor, etc.). Sources: SOS — Business Services, Burlington DPI.
  • What are the current tax rates I must collect?
    State sales 6%; meals 9%; rooms 9%; alcohol 10%; Burlington local option +1% on sales, meals, rooms, alcohol. Sources: VT Taxes — Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, Local Option.
  • How long does it take to form an LLC in Vermont?
    Online filings are typically same day to a few business days. For current processing times and fees, check: SOS — Business Services.
  • Do online-only sellers need to register for Vermont taxes?
    If you have nexus in Vermont (e.g., physical presence, economic thresholds) you must register and collect applicable taxes. See: VT Taxes — Remote Sellers & Marketplace.
  • Do I need a Health Dept license for a cottage/home bakery?
    Food operations intended for sale to the public may require licensing and an approved kitchen. Confirm with: VDH — Food & Lodging.
  • How do I get a Burlington sign permit?
    Confirm sign standards and apply through DPI: Burlington DPI. Sign rules are in the CDO: Burlington CDO.
  • What about alcohol service training?
    Server training requirements are on the state Liquor Control site; certification is generally required. See: Liquor Control — Education & Training.
  • When are my sales/meals/rooms returns due?
    Due dates depend on assigned filing frequency; log into myVTax for your calendar. Source: myVTax.
  • Do I need workers’ comp for independent contractors?
    If the person meets the legal definition of an employee, you need workers’ comp. Misclassification can lead to penalties. See: VT DOL — Workers’ Compensation.
  • Who can help me for free with all this paperwork?
    VT SBDC and SBA Vermont District Office provide no-cost advising and workshops. Vermont SBDC, SBA Vermont.

What To Do If You’re Stuck: Escalation Paths and Plan B’s

  • Pre-application meeting with Burlington DPI to map the permits/inspections path: Burlington DPI.
  • One-stop tax registration/account help via myVTax secure messaging: myVTax.
  • SOS filing questions through Business Services contact: SOS Business Services.
  • Free advisors (business plan, permits checklists, funding prep): Vermont SBDC, CWE Vermont, SBA Vermont.
  • For trade/health code snags, ask to speak directly with your assigned inspector and request a written compliance roadmap.

Source List (Verified and Dated)

About This Guide

  • Purpose: Help you navigate the exact steps to get properly registered and licensed to do business in Burlington, Vermont, with official links and practical advice.
  • Scope: Focuses on registrations, taxes, city permits, health/fire approvals, alcohol licensing, and employer obligations. It cannot cover every niche industry, but it links you to the authoritative agency pages for details.
  • Sources: Only official government sites or well-established, recognized organizations are used. Where fees or due dates change frequently, you’ll see instructions to verify on the official page.

Disclaimer

Program details, fees, and deadlines change. Always verify the latest requirements directly with the agency using the official links in this guide. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or compliance advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult the Burlington Department of Permitting & Inspections, the Vermont Secretary of State, the Vermont Department of Taxes, or an attorney or CPA.