Casper, WY Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This guide gives you a clear, real-world path to get legal to do business in Casper, WY. It focuses on what actually matters in Wyoming and Casper: state registrations, city rules that trip people up, and the specialty licenses that do exist. Every fact is backed by an official source you can click and check.

Quick help (read this first)

• You won’t find a one-size-fits-all “general” business license in Casper. Most businesses focus on state registrations (Secretary of State, sales tax) and then add city permits or specialty licenses only if your industry needs them. See the City code and license list: Casper Municipal Code (official) and the City’s website: City of Casper – Official Site.
• If you sell taxable goods or certain services, you likely need a Wyoming sales/use tax license. Apply through the state’s Taxpayer Access Point (TAP): Wyoming Department of Revenue – Sales & Use Tax (official) and Wyoming TAP online portal.
• Form your company (LLC, corporation, etc.) with the Wyoming Secretary of State. Typical fees: Articles of Organization (LLC) $100 by mail or $102 online; annual report license tax minimum $60 (based on in‑state assets). Source: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division (official forms & fees) and WyoBiz Online Filing.
• Food trucks, restaurants, and most food businesses are licensed and inspected by the state (Consumer Health Services). Start here: Wyoming Department of Agriculture – Consumer Health Services (official licensing & inspections). City zoning and fire rules still apply.
• Alcohol requires both city and state steps. City licensing is governed by the municipal code; state oversight is through the Wyoming Liquor Division. See: Casper Municipal Code – Alcoholic Beverages (official) and Wyoming Liquor Division – Licensing (official).
• Contractors and trades: Wyoming licenses electricians at the state level; many other trades are handled locally through permits and contractor registration. Start city-side here: City of Casper – Community Development (permits, contractor requirements) and state electrical licensing here: Wyoming State Fire Marshal – Electrical Safety (official).
• Hiring? Register for Unemployment Insurance and Workers’ Compensation with the state. Wyoming is a “monopolistic” Workers’ Comp state—coverage must be through the state fund. See: Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – Employers (UI, Workers’ Comp, OSHA) and Workers’ Compensation (official).
• Need free, one-on-one help (not salesy)? The Wyoming SBDC Network can walk you through licensing steps and forms: Wyoming SBDC Network – Free advising (official). SBA’s Wyoming District Office also helps: SBA – Wyoming District Office (official).
• Reality check: processing times and fees can change. Always confirm on the official page linked in this guide before you pay or file. When you see “check the official site for current amounts,” it’s because the fee or rate changes or depends on your situation.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the contact directories to reach the right office fast:
  • City of Casper – Contact & Department Directory
  • Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
  • Wyoming Department of Revenue – Excise Tax
  • Wyoming DWS – Employers
  • Wyoming SBDC – Request free help

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What “business license” actually means in Casper

Start here: Casper does not issue a blanket “general business license” for every business. In Casper, city licenses are generally for specific activities the city regulates (like alcohol, taxis, pawnbrokers, secondhand dealers, door-to-door/peddlers, some adult businesses). Zoning, permits, and inspections still apply to almost everyone. See the list of regulated categories in the code: Casper Municipal Code – Title 5, Business Licenses and Regulations (official code library).

At the state level, Wyoming doesn’t have a statewide general business license either. Most businesses complete:

• Business formation with the Secretary of State.
• Sales/use tax vendor license (if you sell taxable items/services).
• Employer registrations if you have staff (UI and Workers’ Comp).

Then, add city or state specialty licenses based on what you do.

Key sources:

• City of Casper – Official site, departments, permits
• Casper Municipal Code (Municode official library)
• Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
• Wyoming Department of Revenue – Sales & Use Tax
• Wyoming DWS – Employers (UI & Workers’ Comp)
• Wyoming Dept. of Agriculture – Consumer Health Services

Reality check: “No general license” doesn’t mean “no paperwork.” The most common delays in Casper come from zoning/occupancy issues, missing sales tax accounts at the state level, or assuming food/health permits are handled by the city. They usually aren’t—Wyoming handles most food licensing at the state level.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t figure out whether your business needs a city license, call or email the City Clerk’s office from the City website directory: City of Casper – City Clerk (licenses & records).
• If you’re not sure whether your product/service is taxable, contact the state tax office using the contact on this page: Wyoming DOR – Excise Tax contacts.

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Snapshot: who needs what in Casper

Use this table to zero in on likely requirements before you go deep.

Sources:

• Casper Municipal Code – Business Licenses; Planning/Zoning; Signs (official code library)
• Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax (official)
• Wyoming Dept. of Agriculture – Consumer Health Services (official)
• Wyoming State Fire Marshal – Electrical Licensing (official)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Book a free Wyoming SBDC consult and bring your exact scenario; they’ll map the steps and confirm agencies: Wyoming SBDC – Request advising.

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Step-by-step: get legal in the right order

If you want the cleanest path (fewest do-overs), do these steps in order.

1) Choose your business structure and register with the Wyoming Secretary of State

Why first: Banks, tax accounts, and many license applications ask for your entity ID.

• Choose a structure (LLC, corporation, nonprofit, etc.). For a one-owner, an LLC is common, but choose what fits your situation (talk to a CPA/lawyer).
• Name check your business or trade name on the state system: WyoBiz – Business Search (official).
• File your formation:
  • LLC Articles of Organization fee: $100 by mail or $102 online (card processing fee may apply).
  • Corporations have similar formation fees; check the official fee schedule.
  • Source: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division (forms & fees) and WyoBiz Online Filing.
• If you want a DBA (trade name), file it with the state (not the county). The filing fee is typically $100. Source: Wyoming SOS – Trade Name (official).
• Keep your registered agent info handy (Wyoming requires a registered agent with a physical address in Wyoming). Source: Wyoming SOS – Registered Agent info (official).
• Calendar your annual report: minimum license tax $60, due each year. Due dates are shown on your entity record in WyoBiz (commonly tied to the anniversary month). Source: WyoBiz – Business Search (official).

Required documents:

• Name you’re filing and business address.
• Registered agent consent.
• Principal office and mailing address.
• Member/manager info (LLC) or officer/director info (corp).

Reality checks:

• Use the exact company name on every future application (sales tax, permits, bank).
• Wyoming’s annual report fee depends on the value of assets located in Wyoming; most small service businesses pay the $60 minimum. Source: Wyoming SOS – Annual Report License Tax info (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the SOS help pages: Wyoming SOS – Business Division.
• Get free help filing from the SBDC: Wyoming SBDC – Advising.
• If your name gets rejected, search similar names on WyoBiz and adjust (e.g., add “Casper,” “Services,” or change wording).

2) Get your EIN (Federal Employer Identification Number)

• Apply free with the IRS online (same-day issuance in most cases): IRS – Apply for an EIN (official).
• You’ll need your legal entity info and responsible party SSN/ITIN.
• Keep the EIN letter; banks and state applications often request it.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the online application is blocked (common if you already got an EIN recently), use Form SS‑4 and fax/mail per IRS instructions on the same page.
• If you’re a sole proprietor without employees, you might not need an EIN; confirm with the IRS page above or ask a CPA.

3) Register for Wyoming sales/use tax (if you sell taxable goods/services)

• Who needs it: Retail stores, e-commerce sellers shipping to WY addresses, food trucks, restaurants, many service providers that sell taxable items.
• Apply on the state’s online portal: Wyoming TAP – Online tax portal. Program info and guidance: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax (official).
• State sales tax base rate is 4%; counties can add local options. Confirm the current total rate for Natrona County/Casper here: Wyoming DOR – Local Sales/Use Tax Rates (official rate resources).
• Keep your sales tax account number and your filing frequency (monthly/quarterly/annual) handy.

Required documents:

• Legal business name and entity ID (from WyoBiz).
• FEIN.
• NAICS code (business activity).
• Business locations and start date of sales.

Reality checks:

• Don’t wait to register—some permits will ask for your WY sales tax number.
• Sales tax returns and due dates vary by filing frequency; confirm your due date inside TAP or on DOR guidance (don’t guess).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call or message the Excise Tax Division via the contacts on the official page: Wyoming DOR – Excise Tax contacts.
• If your product’s taxability is unclear, request a binding ruling or written guidance from DOR through the contact page.

4) Employer accounts: Unemployment Insurance and Workers’ Compensation

• Unemployment Insurance (UI): Register as an employer when you hire staff. See: Wyoming DWS – Employers (UI).
• Workers’ Compensation: Wyoming is a monopolistic state fund—get coverage through the state, not private carriers. Info and registration: Wyoming DWS – Workers’ Compensation (official).
• You’ll assign job classifications; rates depend on your industry and experience.

Required documents:

• FEIN and entity details.
• Owner/officer info.
• Payroll start dates and estimated wages.

Reality checks:

• Owners may or may not be required to be covered under Workers’ Comp depending on entity type and role—ask DWS before you assume. The wrong classification can cost real money.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the DWS employer contact options on the page above to confirm registration steps.
• If you need hands-on help getting started, ask the SBDC to walk it with you: Wyoming SBDC – Advising.

5) Check Casper zoning, occupancy, and home occupation rules

• Before you sign a lease or buy equipment, check that your business use is allowed at your address. Start with: City of Casper – Community Development (official).
• If you’re home-based, review home occupation rules. Many residential neighborhoods have limits on traffic, signage, or outdoor storage. Home occupation permits may apply. See the municipal code: Casper Municipal Code – Zoning/UDC (official code library).
• If you’re taking over a commercial space, you may need a certificate of occupancy (especially if the prior use is different), fire inspection, and sometimes basic building or sign permits.

Required documents:

• Site plan or floor plan (even hand-drawn can help at the start).
• Lease or property owner approval.
• Business description (what happens on site, customer traffic, delivery vehicles).

Reality checks:

• Most delays in Casper come from mismatches: a use that’s not allowed in that zone, or a change-of-use that triggers upgrades (parking, accessibility, fire suppression). Ask before you build.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact Community Development via the City website for a zoning verification and guidance: City of Casper – Community Development.
• If you need a quick read on whether a use is permitted, check the zoning tables in the municipal code and confirm with staff: Casper Municipal Code – Zoning (official).

6) Industry-specific licenses and permits (Casper + Wyoming)

Use this as a map to the right agency.

• Food trucks, restaurants, and food establishments:
  • Licensing and inspections through the Wyoming Department of Agriculture Consumer Health Services: CHS – Licensing & Permits (official).
  • City zoning/locations, grease interceptors, and fire code still apply: City of Casper – Community Development and City of Casper – Fire-EMS.
• Alcohol (bars, taprooms, restaurants with alcohol, liquor stores):
  • City liquor licensing process is in the code; local quotas and hearings apply: Casper Municipal Code – Alcoholic Beverages (official).
  • State oversight and forms: Wyoming Liquor Division – Licensing (official).
• Contractors, trades, and construction:
  • Project permits and local contractor registration through the City: City of Casper – Community Development (permits).
  • State electrical licensing and inspections: Wyoming State Fire Marshal – Electrical Safety (official).
• Child care:
  • State licensing through the Wyoming Department of Family Services. Start with: WY DFS – Child Care Licensing (official) and navigate to child care licensing.
  • City zoning for child care uses and occupancy: City of Casper – Community Development.
• Cosmetology/barbering:
  • State professional licensing (establishments and practitioners) via the Wyoming Board of Cosmetology. Start at the Wyoming licensing boards portal: Wyoming Professional Licensing Boards (official portal) and follow to cosmetology/barbering.
• Pawn, secondhand dealers, taxis, door-to-door sales/peddlers:
  • City licensing categories and procedures are defined in the municipal code: Casper Municipal Code – Title 5 (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t see your industry listed, use the City Clerk page and code search tools, then confirm with City staff: City of Casper – City Clerk.
• For state-licensed professions not listed above, search the licensing boards directory: Wyoming Professional Licensing Boards – Directory (official).

7) Sign permits, building permits, and fire

• Most permanent signs in Casper require a permit. Check rules and apply through Community Development: City of Casper – Community Development and the code: Casper Municipal Code – Signs (official).
• Remodeling or new build-outs typically need building permits and inspections.
• Fire inspections and compliance (exit signage, extinguishers, suppression) are managed by Casper Fire-EMS: City of Casper – Fire-EMS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a pre-application meeting with Community Development and Fire-EMS before you renovate; it reduces surprises. Use the department links above to request one.

8) Banking, bookkeeping, and tax compliance

• Open a business bank account (your bank will usually ask for your Articles, EIN letter, and a resolution if more than one owner).
• Bookkeeping: set up a simple system to track sales subject to WY sales tax vs. non-taxable sales and out-of-state sales.
• Sales tax returns: File per your assigned frequency in the TAP portal: Wyoming TAP (official).
• Annual report: File every year with the Wyoming SOS; the minimum license tax is $60. See your entity record and the SOS annual report pages: WyoBiz – Business Search and Wyoming SOS – Business Division.
• County business personal property: Most Wyoming counties (including Natrona County) tax business personal property. You will likely need to list equipment with the Natrona County Assessor. Start here: Natrona County – Official Site and navigate to the Assessor’s page for business personal property reporting.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the Assessor’s office how to submit your first business personal property listing (they’ll provide the forms and deadlines). Use the county site above to access contacts.
• If you struggle with return filings, book a local CPA and bring your TAP login and sales reports.

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Wyoming filings and typical fees (2025)

The fees below are drawn from official state resources. Always confirm the current amount and any convenience fees.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t find the fee on the linked official page, call the number on that page’s contact section or use the site’s contact form. Don’t rely on third-party blogs for fees.

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Casper-specific city touchpoints you shouldn’t skip

Even without a “general” city license, you still interact with the city.

• Zoning verification: Confirm your use and address are compatible with the zoning. Start with Community Development: City of Casper – Community Development.
• Certificate of occupancy: If the use is new or the building changed, you may need a C/O before opening.
• Fire inspection: Coordinate with Casper Fire-EMS for occupancy and fire code compliance: City of Casper – Fire-EMS.
• Sign permit: Required for most permanent signs. See code and permitting links via Community Development and Municode: Casper Municipal Code – Signs (official).
• Contractor registration: If you’re doing permitted work, you’ll need to follow city contractor rules. Confirm via Community Development.
• Specialty city licenses: If you operate a pawn shop, secondhand dealership, taxi, or door-to-door sales, see the municipal code Title 5 and contact the City Clerk: City of Casper – City Clerk and Casper Municipal Code – Title 5 (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Schedule an upfront meeting with Community Development to review your address, use, signage, and any build-out. It’s faster than guessing and redoing.

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Food trucks, restaurants, and other health-licensed businesses

Most food licensing in Wyoming is handled by the state’s Consumer Health Services (CHS), even for Casper. Plan your project around both the CHS and City requirements.

• Apply for a food license/plan review: Wyoming Department of Agriculture – Consumer Health Services (official).
• Food truck siting rules: Coordinate with the city for where you can legally park/vend and how to handle commissary kitchens where required: City of Casper – Community Development.
• Fire requirements for mobile food units (LP gas, suppression, extinguishers): City of Casper – Fire-EMS.
• Sales tax: Register with the state, collect on taxable sales: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax.

Documents you’ll likely need:

• Detailed menu and process flow (CHS likes clarity on cook-cool-serve steps).
• Equipment list and specs.
• Commissary agreement if not preparing on-site.
• Water/wastewater plan; propane and fire suppression specs for food trucks.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask CHS for a pre-opening consult; they’re usually helpful if you come prepared with a layout and menu.
• If your first location hits a zoning wall, consider starting in a shared commercial kitchen to get licensed while you hunt for a long-term site.

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Alcohol businesses in Casper (bars, taprooms, restaurants with alcohol, liquor stores)

Alcohol licensing is a two-level process: city and state.

• City process: Casper follows state law for license types and uses local hearings, quotas, and site rules. See the code and contact the City Clerk: Casper Municipal Code – Alcohol (official) and City of Casper – City Clerk.
• State oversight: Applications, compliance, and training guidance are available through the Wyoming Liquor Division: Wyoming Liquor Division – Licensing (official).
• Expect a more involved timeline: background checks, hearings, and build-out inspections are common.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t secure a retail license due to quota limits, consider alternative license types (e.g., restaurant license) or a timing strategy. Ask the City Clerk which categories are available.
• Discuss with a local attorney who handles Casper liquor licensing to avoid expensive missteps.

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Contractors, trades, and construction

Construction-related businesses often interact with both the city and the state.

• City permits and inspections: City of Casper – Community Development.
• State electrical licensing (individual/journeyman/master) and inspections: Wyoming State Fire Marshal – Electrical Safety (official).
• Plan reviews for commercial projects; fire code compliance: City of Casper – Fire-EMS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your license doesn’t transfer or you’re unclear on which projects need permits, schedule a plan review meeting and ask for a written list of required permits and inspections.

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Taxes, rates, and deadlines that matter in Casper

Here’s what most local small businesses face:

• Sales & use tax:
  • State base rate: 4%. Local optional rates vary by county/city. Confirm the current total rate for Casper/Natrona County: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax Rates (official).
  • Filing frequency (monthly/quarterly/annual) and due dates are assigned by the DOR; check your TAP account for your schedule: Wyoming TAP.
• Lodging tax (if you provide lodging): Wyoming has a statewide lodging tax and possible local add-ons. Confirm current rates and filing with DOR: Wyoming DOR – Lodging Tax (official).
• Employer taxes:
  • Unemployment Insurance: Register and file with DWS: Wyoming DWS – Employers (official).
  • Workers’ Compensation: State fund coverage; rates depend on class. Wyoming DWS – Workers’ Compensation.
• No state personal income tax or corporate income tax in Wyoming. You still owe federal income tax and self-employment tax where applicable. Source: Wyoming Department of Revenue – General Tax Info.
• Annual report with the SOS: Minimum $60 license tax, due each year; due date shown on your entity record: WyoBiz – Business Search.
• County business personal property: Report equipment to the Natrona County Assessor and pay ad valorem taxes; see the county site for forms and deadlines: Natrona County – Official Site.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask DOR to verify your sales tax filing schedule and rate. Use the contact on the Excise Tax page: Wyoming DOR – Excise Tax contacts.
• If you missed a filing, file immediately and contact the agency about penalty relief options.

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Real-world examples (Casper-specific)

These are typical Casper scenarios and the steps that work.

• Coffee cart downtown:
  • Form LLC with SOS; get EIN; register for sales tax.
  • Secure a commissary kitchen or commercial prep space.
  • Get food license through CHS; schedule inspection.
  • Coordinate with Community Development for locations and signage; confirm if you need a mobile vending permit or location approval.
  • Fire inspection for propane/suppression on the cart.
  • Open and collect sales tax.
• Home-based Etsy shop (Casper address):
  • If you’ll form an LLC, file with SOS; otherwise, operate as a sole proprietor.
  • Apply for sales/use tax if you sell taxable goods shipped to WY.
  • Check home occupation rules (no customer traffic? storage limits?).
  • No health license if not selling regulated items.
  • Keep business personal property on your radar if you buy equipment.
• Small general contractor:
  • Form entity; get EIN.
  • Sign up for Workers’ Comp and UI before payroll.
  • City contractor registration and project permits.
  • If doing electrical, ensure proper state electrical licensing and inspections.
  • Track sales/use tax on materials per DOR rules.
• New bar in central Casper:
  • Secure a location with proper zoning and parking.
  • Visit City Clerk about license type availability; read the code requirements.
  • Plan for public hearing and community notice timelines.
  • Coordinate with Fire-EMS and building officials for occupancy.
  • Register for sales tax; set up point-of-sale to collect tax on drinks.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If any agency says “we don’t handle that,” ask “which office should I call next?” and get the name of the form or license. Then use this guide to locate the right link.

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Timelines you can expect

These are typical—not promises. Always check the current note on the official page.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a filing is stuck, follow up using the contact on the official page. Response times improve when you provide your application number, entity ID, or EIN.

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Documents checklist (Casper + Wyoming)

Make a folder (digital or paper) for these. Having them ready speeds up every step.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re missing something, ask the agency whether you can submit a placeholder or step out of sequence. Often you can start the review while you collect one last document.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Signing a lease before checking zoning/occupancy. Fix: verify land use at City of Casper – Community Development first.
• Assuming Casper has a general city business license and missing the state licenses. Fix: Register with SOS and DOR early; add city permits as needed.
• Starting a food truck without state CHS approval. Fix: Read the CHS guidance and submit a complete plan: WY Dept. of Agriculture – CHS.
• Skipping Workers’ Comp. Fix: Wyoming requires state fund coverage. Register here: DWS – Workers’ Compensation.
• Building or hanging a sign without a permit. Fix: Get sign permit approval via Community Development and check the sign section in the code.
• Missing annual report with SOS. Fix: Calendar the due date shown on your WyoBiz entity page and file the $60 minimum license tax (or asset-based amount).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, contact the agency and ask about corrective steps. Many issues can be fixed with a late filing or a plan review, but it’s cheaper to ask early.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Wyoming-focused)

Building in Casper? These programs can help you find funding, coaching, or certifications.

• Women-owned:
  • Wyoming Women’s Business Center (WWBC) provides free advising, training, and microloans. Start here: Wyoming Women’s Business Center (official).
  • SBA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB) for federal contracts: SBA – WOSB Certification (official).
• Veteran-owned:
  • Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program: free counseling and training. Find your regional VBOC: SBA – VBOC Program (official).
  • Consider SDVOSB certification (for service‑disabled veterans) through SBA: SBA – Veteran contracting (official).
• Minority-owned:
  • MBDA Business Centers offer growth support (nearest centers are out-of-state but serve WY). Search: MBDA – Business Centers Directory (official).
  • Federal 8(a) Business Development Program: SBA – 8(a) Program (official).
• LGBTQ+ owned:
  • NGLCC LGBTBE certification can open supplier diversity opportunities: NGLCC – Certification.
• Disabled-owned:
  • Disability-owned supplier certification (DOBE) via Disability:IN can help with private-sector supplier diversity: Disability:IN – Certification.
• Immigrant-owned and language access:
  • SBA resource partners offer advising; ask for language support when scheduling: SBA – Wyoming District Office.
  • Wyoming SBDC can connect you with translation or bilingual advising when available: Wyoming SBDC – Advising.
• Accessibility in permits:
  • When designing or renovating, ask Community Development about accessibility requirements early to avoid costly redesigns: City of Casper – Community Development.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not sure which program fits, start with a free SBDC consult and ask for tailored referrals: Wyoming SBDC – Request advising.

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Useful contacts and where to apply

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If one link doesn’t have the exact phone number you need, use its “Contact” or “Staff Directory” on the same site and search for “Licensing,” “Permits,” or “Excise Tax.”

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City and state realities (with sources)

• Casper population and market size: U.S. Census Bureau estimates show Casper at roughly 58–59K residents in recent years. Check the latest QuickFacts for the most current estimate: U.S. Census – QuickFacts: Casper city, Wyoming (official).
• Sales tax baseline: Wyoming’s statewide sales tax rate is 4%. Local options can add more. Verify the current combined rate for Casper/Natrona County: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax Rates (official).
• Workers’ Comp is not optional for covered employment in Wyoming; it’s a state fund. Source: Wyoming DWS – Workers’ Compensation (official).
• Wyoming does not impose a state personal or corporate income tax. Source: Wyoming Department of Revenue – General Tax Info (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you need deeper market data, ask the SBDC for a market research report for Casper/Natrona County using official datasets.

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Quick budgets for common Casper setups

Use this table as a planning tool. You must confirm current fees on the linked official pages.

Sources: Wyoming SOS – Business Division, WyoBiz, Wyoming DOR – Excise Tax, WY Dept. of Agriculture – CHS, City of Casper – Community Development, City of Casper – City Clerk.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you need exact permit fees, email the Community Development contact on the City site with your sign dimensions or project scope to get a quote before you spend.

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10 Wyoming- and Casper-specific FAQs

• Does Casper require a general business license?
  • Generally, no. Casper licenses specific activities (e.g., alcohol, pawnbrokers, taxis, peddlers). Most businesses focus on state registrations, zoning, and permits. Source: Casper Municipal Code – Title 5 (official).
• What’s the sales tax rate in Casper?
  • State rate is 4%. Local rates vary by county/city. Check the current combined rate for Natrona County/Casper on the official page: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax Rates (official).
• How fast can I form an LLC in Wyoming?
  • Online filings can be same day to a few business days in many cases. File here: WyoBiz Online Filing. Source: Wyoming SOS – Business Division.
• Do home-based businesses in Casper need a permit?
  • Many do, depending on activity, traffic, signage, and storage. Check home occupation rules and ask Community Development: City of Casper – Community Development and Casper Municipal Code – Zoning (official).
• Who licenses restaurants and food trucks?
  • The state (WY Dept. of Agriculture – CHS). Start here: CHS – Licensing (official). City zoning and fire rules also apply.
• Do contractors need a license in Casper?
  • Expect city contractor registration for permitted work and permits per project; electricians are licensed at the state level. Sources: City of Casper – Community Development and WY State Fire Marshal – Electrical.
• I sell only online from Casper. Do I still need a sales tax license?
  • If you sell taxable goods to Wyoming customers, yes. Apply here: Wyoming DOR – Sales & Use Tax (official).
• Do I need Workers’ Comp in Wyoming?
  • If you have covered employees, yes—through the state fund. Check specifics by job type with DWS: Wyoming DWS – Workers’ Compensation.
• Any state income tax I need to plan for?
  • Wyoming has no state personal or corporate income tax. You still have federal taxes and employment taxes. Source: Wyoming Department of Revenue – General Tax Info (official).
• Where can I get free help in Casper?
  • Start with the Wyoming SBDC Network: Wyoming SBDC – Advising (official). The SBA Wyoming District Office also lists programs: SBA – Wyoming District (official).

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What to prepare before you apply (by section)

This quick list helps you avoid back-and-forth.

• SOS filings:
  • Exact company name(s) and registered agent consent.
• Sales tax:
  • Start-of-sales date, business locations, EIN, NAICS.
• Zoning/occupancy:
  • Address, site plan, business activity summary.
• Food:
  • Menu, equipment list, layout, commissary or water/waste details.
• Liquor:
  • Premises diagram, background info, hearing schedules.
• Contractors:
  • Project scope, plans, trade licenses, proof of insurance.
• Employers:
  • Payroll start date, job classifications, owner/officer details.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If any form asks for data you don’t have yet (e.g., a finalized address), ask the agency if you can open a file and update the missing field later.

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Where people usually get stuck in Casper (and how to get unstuck)

• “We leased, then found out the use isn’t allowed.”
  • Ask Community Development for permitted uses, parking counts, and any special approvals before you sign.
• “We bought a food truck but can’t pass inspection.”
  • Call CHS before buying or modifying equipment; add proper fire suppression and propane setup per Casper Fire-EMS.
• “Our sign installer started without a permit.”
  • Pause and apply for a sign permit; provide drawings and mounting details to avoid removal or fines.
• “We hired staff and learned we needed Workers’ Comp yesterday.”
  • Register with DWS immediately; ask about coverage start and any penalties. Document your fix.
• “We missed the annual report and got delinquent.”
  • File through WyoBiz and pay the $60 (or asset-based) fee right away; if you received a notice, follow its instructions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you hit a wall, request a supervisor or ask for written guidance from the agency. You can also bring in an SBDC advisor to your next call to help you ask the right questions.

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Real sources you can trust (verify-as-you-go)

• City of Casper official website: City of Casper – Departments & Services
• Casper Municipal Code (official publisher): Municode – Casper Code of Ordinances
• Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division (forms, fees, filings): Wyoming SOS – Business Division and WyoBiz Online Filing
• Wyoming Department of Revenue – Sales & Use Tax: WY DOR – Excise Tax
• Wyoming DWS – Employers (UI & Workers’ Comp): DWS – Employers and Workers’ Compensation
• Wyoming Dept. of Agriculture – Consumer Health Services: CHS – Licensing & Inspections
• Wyoming Liquor Division: WY Liquor Division – Licensing
• Natrona County (Assessor for business personal property): Natrona County – Official Site
• IRS EIN: IRS – Apply for an EIN
• U.S. Census QuickFacts: Casper city, Wyoming

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About this guide

This guide focuses on Casper, WY and summarizes official state and city processes. Where fees or rates change or vary, we link directly to the official page so you can confirm current amounts. We avoid making up numbers. If you spot an update, check the official source linked and follow that over any summary.

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Disclaimer

This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Program rules, fees, tax rates, deadlines, and processes can change at any time. Always verify details on the official city, county, state, or federal websites linked in this guide, or consult a qualified professional (attorney, CPA, or licensed contractor) for advice on your specific situation.