The Ultimate Charlotte, North Carolina Business License and Permitting Guide
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help (read this first)
- Call City services at 311 (or 704-336-7600 from outside Mecklenburg County) for zoning, fire, code, and permitting triage. Ask for help with “starting a business permits.” City of Charlotte 311 information explains services.
- There is no general “City of Charlotte business license” for most businesses after a 2015 state law change. You will likely need multiple specific approvals instead (zoning, inspections, sales tax, health, fire, etc.). Source: North Carolina Session Law 2014-3 (HB 1050) – privilege license tax changes.
- Register for North Carolina sales and use tax (if you sell taxable goods/services). It’s free and available online through the North Carolina Department of Revenue (NCDOR). Source: NCDOR – Online Business Registration.
- Confirm your location and use with zoning before you sign a lease. In Charlotte, start with 311 or the Planning, Design & Development Department via charlottenc.gov.
- Food, alcohol, personal care, construction, childcare, health care, and transportation have extra licenses/permits. Confirm early with the right agency:
- Food service: Mecklenburg County Public Health (Environmental Health) via mecknc.gov.
- Alcohol permits: North Carolina ABC Commission via abc.nc.gov.
- Trades: See North Carolina licensing boards via NC.gov – Professional Licensing Boards.
- Hire people? You will need an EIN (IRS), NC withholding (NCDOR), unemployment insurance (DES), and likely workers’ comp (3+ employees). Sources: IRS – Apply for an EIN, NCDOR – Business Registration, NC Division of Employment Security, NC Industrial Commission – Workers’ Compensation.
- Local property listing: Most businesses must list business personal property with the Mecklenburg County Assessor annually by January 31. Late listing penalties apply. Start at Mecklenburg County Assessor.
What “business license” means in Charlotte (reality check)
The City of Charlotte does not issue a single, catch-all “business license” for most businesses. That changed because of a state law that repealed most local privilege licenses effective July 1, 2015. Source: North Carolina Session Law 2014-3 (HB 1050).
Instead, you’ll pull together the right mix of:
- Zoning/use approval for your address (and a Certificate of Occupancy if your space is new or changing use). City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County jointly handle land use and building safety. Start with 311 or charlottenc.gov and Mecklenburg County LUESA/Code Enforcement.
- State tax accounts (sales & use tax, withholding) through NCDOR. Source: NCDOR – Business Registration.
- Industry/occupational licenses if you’re in a regulated field (food service, alcohol, child care, trades, personal care, health care, transportation). Sources: NC ABC Commission, NC Dept. of Health and Human Services – Child Care, NC.gov – Professional Licensing Boards.
- Fire, health, and other safety permits as needed (e.g., cooking, flammable storage, occupancy loads). Start at 311 or Mecklenburg County LUESA.
- Annual business personal property listing with the Mecklenburg County Assessor by January 31 each year if you own equipment, furniture, or machinery for the business. Source: Mecklenburg County Assessor.
Fast facts that matter
- Combined sales tax in Charlotte/Mecklenburg County is typically 7.25% (state 4.75% plus local). Confirm current county rate here: NCDOR – Sales and Use Tax Rates by County.
- Workers’ comp is required in North Carolina when you regularly employ 3 or more employees (with limited exceptions). Source: NC Industrial Commission – Employer Requirements.
- General contractor license is required in North Carolina for construction projects of $40,000 or more. Source: NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
- EIN from IRS is free. Source: IRS – EIN application.
At‑a‑glance: Which Charlotte approvals you may need
Table notes: Costs and timelines vary. Click the official links for current fees, forms, and processing times.
| Need | Who issues it | When you need it | Typical timing | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoning/use approval for your address | City of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development | Before lease/build-out | Varies by case | City of Charlotte – Planning (site) |
| Building permits & Certificate of Occupancy (CO) | Mecklenburg County LUESA Code Enforcement | New build, remodel, change of use | Varies; simple: days, complex: weeks | Mecklenburg County LUESA/Code Enforcement |
| Fire code permit (e.g., cooking, assembly, hazardous) | Local fire code official (Charlotte Fire coordinates with LUESA) | Kitchens, events, certain systems | Varies; often days to weeks | Start with 311 or LUESA |
| Sales & use tax account | NCDOR | Selling taxable goods/services | Often same day online | NCDOR – Business Registration |
| Withholding tax account | NCDOR | If you have employees | Often same day online | NCDOR – Business Registration |
| Unemployment insurance (UI) employer account | NC Division of Employment Security (DES) | If you have employees | Usually 1–2 weeks | DES – Employer Accounts |
| Food service permits | Mecklenburg County Public Health (Environmental Health) | Restaurants, food trucks, caterers | Plan review + inspection | Mecklenburg County Public Health – Environmental Health |
| Alcohol permits | NC ABC Commission | On/off‑premises alcohol sales | Background checks + inspections | NC ABC Commission – Permits |
| Sign permit | City of Charlotte/Mecklenburg County | New exterior signs | Varies; often 1–3 weeks | Start with 311 or LUESA |
| DBA (“assumed name”) | NC Assumed Business Name (filed with county ROD; statewide index) | Sole proprietors/partnerships using a trade name | Same day to a few days | SOS – Assumed Business Name |
| Business personal property listing | Mecklenburg County Assessor | Most businesses with equipment/furnishings | Due January 31 yearly | Mecklenburg County Assessor |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re not sure where your activity fits, call 311 and say, “I need help mapping out my permits for a [your industry] business.” They will route you to Planning, LUESA, or Fire as needed.
- For state-level licensing uncertainty, start at NC.gov – Professional Licensing Boards to find your board.
Step 1: Confirm your location and zoning before you sign anything
This is the most common make-or-break step. The right address can save you months.
- Ask the City whether your intended use is allowed at the address. Use 311 or the City’s Planning, Design & Development contacts via charlottenc.gov.
- If you’re building out or changing the use of a space, Mecklenburg County LUESA (Code Enforcement) will advise you on building permits and whether you’ll need a new Certificate of Occupancy. Start at Mecklenburg County LUESA.
- Home-based business? Review Charlotte’s rules for “home occupation” before you operate. Expect limits on signage, employees on-site, parking, and customer visits. Start at 311 to confirm the current home occupation standards.
- Signs and outdoor seating also need approvals. Don’t buy or install signage until you confirm a sign permit path. Start at 311 or Mecklenburg County LUESA.
Required documents (typical):
- Proposed address, suite number, and a basic description of your business activities.
- If leasing, a draft floor plan or landlord fit‑out plan. For home occupation, simple sketch and description may be enough.
Realistic timelines:
- Zoning/use determination: often within days for simple cases; more time for conditional or special uses.
- Building permit plan review: simple interior alterations may be days; complex build‑outs can be weeks.
- Certificate of Occupancy: after final inspections; timing depends on project scope.
Common pitfalls:
- Signing a lease only to learn your use isn’t allowed or requires major (expensive) upgrades.
- Skipping sign permits and getting a violation.
- Assuming a home business is “automatically allowed” for any activity.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your use isn’t permitted at your target address, ask Planning about alternative zoning districts or close-by addresses that do allow your use. Then ask your broker/landlord for options.
- If the build‑out costs blow your budget, consider shared spaces (commercial kitchens, co‑warehouses, coworking) that already hold needed approvals.
Step 2: Register your legal structure (LLC, corporation, or DBA)
Pick and form your legal structure before applying for most permits.
- LLC or corporation: File with the North Carolina Secretary of State (SOS). Source: NC SOS – Business Registration.
- Sole proprietor or general partnership using a name other than your legal name? File an Assumed Business Name (DBA) with the county Register of Deeds, indexed statewide. Source: SOS – Assumed Business Names.
Required documents (typical):
- Name availability confirmation (check at SOS).
- Registered agent and registered office in North Carolina.
- Formation documents (Articles of Organization for LLC; Articles of Incorporation for corporations).
Costs and timelines:
- Formation filing fees apply and vary by entity type. See current fees at NC SOS – Fees. Filing online is usually faster. Many filings complete within days.
Common pitfalls:
- Picking a name already in use and getting rejected.
- Forming an entity after you’ve signed a lease or contract in your personal name.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re unsure about structure, speak with a North Carolina business attorney or CPA. The SBA North Carolina District Office can also connect you to no-cost advising (SBDC, SCORE, and WBC Charlotte).
Step 3: Get your EIN (federal employer ID)
- Apply online with the IRS. It’s free and immediate for most applicants. Source: IRS – EIN application.
You’ll need an EIN to:
- Open a business bank account, hire employees, or file certain tax registrations.
Common pitfalls:
- Paying third-party websites for an EIN. It should be $0.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re not eligible for the online application (e.g., no SSN/ITIN), follow the IRS Form SS-4 instructions on the same page for phone, fax, or mail alternatives.
Step 4: Register with North Carolina for taxes
Most local “license” questions actually come down to the right state tax registrations.
- Sales & Use Tax: If you sell taxable goods or certain services in NC, register with NCDOR. Registration is free. Source: NCDOR – Business Registration.
- Withholding Tax: If you have employees, register for NC withholding (payroll) at NCDOR. Source: same as above.
- Unemployment Insurance (UI): Register as an employer with the NC Division of Employment Security (DES). Source: DES – Employer Accounts.
Charlotte/Mecklenburg sales tax
- The combined rate in Charlotte/Mecklenburg County is commonly 7.25% (state 4.75% + local). Check the current rate for Mecklenburg County: NCDOR – County Sales Tax Rates.
Required documents (typical):
- EIN (or SSN for sole proprietor), legal name, entity details, NAICS code, start date, and business address.
Realistic timelines:
- NCDOR online registration is often same day. DES UI account setup can take 1–2 weeks depending on volume.
Common pitfalls:
- Not collecting sales tax on taxable sales from day one.
- Forgetting that online sales to NC customers can still be taxable.
- Missing payroll tax deposit deadlines.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call NCDOR Taxpayer Assistance at 1-877-252-3052 for account registration issues or to clarify taxable sales. Source: NCDOR – Contact.
- For UI employer questions, start at DES – Employers.
Step 5: Pull building, fire, and occupancy approvals (if you have a physical space)
If you’re building out or changing space, get these right upfront.
- Building permits and inspections: Mecklenburg County LUESA Code Enforcement handles building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits and coordinates final inspections and Certificates of Occupancy. Start: Mecklenburg County LUESA.
- Fire code permits: Certain uses (commercial kitchens, assembly spaces, special events, hazardous materials) require fire permits. In Charlotte, fire code compliance is coordinated locally with Charlotte Fire and the county permitting systems. Start with 311 or LUESA for direction.
- Certificate of Occupancy (CO): If your use is new or your build‑out changes occupancy, you will need a new CO after final inspections.
Required documents (typical):
- Sealed plans for commercial build‑outs.
- Contractor license information (if applicable).
- Equipment cut sheets (e.g., hood systems, suppression systems).
Realistic timelines:
- Simple interior-only projects can be reviewed within days; complex projects can take weeks or longer depending on revisions and workload.
Common pitfalls:
- Starting work without permits, leading to stop-work orders and delays.
- Buying equipment that doesn’t meet code (e.g., wrong kitchen hood).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use LUESA’s customer support to request a “pre-submittal” or “early assistance” meeting. Ask your architect/contractor to attend so you hear the same guidance.
Step 6: Industry-specific licenses and health permits
Some industries have extra steps. Get these moving early to avoid bottlenecks.
Table: Common Charlotte industry permits
| Industry | Primary approvals | Notes | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurants/cafés | Environmental Health permit; building/fire if needed; sales tax | Plan review, equipment specs, and pre-opening inspection required | Mecklenburg County Public Health – Environmental Health |
| Food trucks/caterers | Mobile food unit permit; commissary agreement; fire permit for cooking | You must operate from an approved commissary; fire safety checks required | Mecklenburg County Environmental Health; 311 |
| Alcohol (on/off premises) | NC ABC permits; local zoning sign‑off; background checks | Different permits for beer/wine/mixed beverages; fees vary by permit | NC ABC Commission – Permitting |
| Salons/barbers | State shop license; practitioner license; building/fire if applicable | Separate facility and practitioner licensing | [NC Cosmetic Art Examiners] via NC Licensing Boards directory |
| Child care | State child care license; zoning; building/fire | Strict ratio, training, and facility standards | NC DHHS – Child Care Licensing |
| Construction trades | State contractor/trade licenses; building permits | GC license for jobs ≥ $40,000; trade licenses required | NC Licensing Board for General Contractors; NC boards directory |
| Transportation (TNCs, taxis, shuttles) | State and local rules; vehicle inspections; insurance | Requirements vary by mode | 311 and NCDOT links via NC.gov |
Alcohol permits specifics (reality check):
- ABC permits are state-level. The type (e.g., on‑premises beer and wine, mixed beverage) determines the paperwork and fees. You will typically need a zoning/use sign‑off, background checks, and a pre-opening inspection. Processing can take several weeks. Source: NC ABC Commission – Permits.
Food service specifics:
- Mecklenburg County Environmental Health requires plan review for new/renovated food establishments, including food trucks (mobile food units). You’ll need a permitted commissary for mobile units and a pre-opening inspection. Source: Mecklenburg County Public Health – Environmental Health.
Common pitfalls:
- Signing a lease for a restaurant space that cannot support required ventilation, grease interception, or occupancy.
- Buying a food truck that cannot pass local food safety or fire inspections.
- Applying for ABC permits before you’ve cleared local zoning sign‑off.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Book a consult with Environmental Health before you purchase equipment. Ask for a plan review checklist and sample floor plan.
- For ABC, call the ABC Commission permitting office for a pre-application checklist. If timing is tight, plan a soft opening without alcohol until your permits arrive.
Step 7: Hiring employees in North Carolina
If you’ll have employees, line up these items early.
- EIN (IRS): Free, needed for payroll. Source: IRS – EIN.
- Withholding tax account (NCDOR): Register online. Source: NCDOR – Business Registration.
- Unemployment Insurance (DES): Register as a new employer. Source: DES – Employer Accounts.
- Workers’ Compensation: Required for most employers with 3 or more employees (some exceptions). Source: NC Industrial Commission.
- New Hire Reporting: Report new employees to the state directory shortly after hire (federal requirement; NC participates). Start via NCDOR or DES links to the New Hire Directory.
Required documents (typical):
- EIN, business legal info, officer/owner info, estimated payroll start date.
Realistic timelines:
- NCDOR accounts can be immediate; DES can take 1–2 weeks; workers’ comp policy depends on your insurer.
Common pitfalls:
- Waiting to buy workers’ comp until after an injury occurs (very risky and illegal if required).
- Missing wage and hour postings or meals/rest rules. North Carolina follows federal minimum wage ($7.25). Source: U.S. DOL – Wage and Hour.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Contact the NC Industrial Commission for guidance on workers’ comp coverage questions. Start at ic.nc.gov.
- Get free HR compliance help from the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) or SCORE via the SBA North Carolina District Office and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library – Main Library resources for workplace posters and guides.
Step 8: Ongoing local tax and filing duties
Don’t miss these after you open.
- Business Personal Property Listing: File with the Mecklenburg County Assessor by January 31 each year if you own business equipment, furniture, computers, or machinery. Late listing penalties (often 10%) may apply under NC law. Start at Mecklenburg County Assessor.
- Sales tax returns: File with NCDOR monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on your assignment. Source: NCDOR – Sales and Use Tax.
- Withholding and UI filings: File with NCDOR/DES per your assigned schedule.
Common pitfalls:
- Not listing leased equipment (often still your listing responsibility).
- Not updating your address with NCDOR and DES, leading to missed notices and penalties.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you miss the January 31 listing, contact the Assessor promptly through Mecklenburg County Assessor to discuss options and penalties.
- If you receive a tax notice you don’t understand, call NCDOR at 1-877-252-3052 for clarification.
Realistic timelines (Charlotte examples)
The following are typical ranges; your case may be shorter or longer. Always check the current workload with the agency.
| Task | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EIN (IRS) | Immediate online | Free |
| NCDOR tax registration | Same day to 48 hours | Sales/use and withholding |
| Zoning/use confirmation | A few days to a few weeks | Depends on complexity |
| Building permit plan review | Days to weeks | Depends on scope and responses |
| Health plan review + inspection | Weeks | Pre-opening inspection required |
| Fire code permit | Days to weeks | Varies by system and occupancy |
| ABC permits | Several weeks | Background checks + local sign‑off |
| Sign permits | 1–3 weeks | Depends on design and zoning |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the agency if your application can be split into phases (e.g., “shell” and “upfit” permits).
- Submit complete documents up front (sealed plans, cut sheets) and respond quickly to comments to keep your place in queue.
Cost snapshot (where to find the exact numbers)
You asked for concrete numbers. Many fees change with local ordinances or annual schedules. Use these official pages to pull current amounts before you pay anything:
- Building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical permit fees: Mecklenburg County LUESA – Code Enforcement.
- Fire code permit fees: Start via 311 or LUESA; city fire pages link to current fee tables via charlottenc.gov.
- Food service (plan review, permit) fees: Mecklenburg County Public Health – Environmental Health.
- ABC permit fees: NC ABC Commission – Fee Schedule and Permit Types.
- Secretary of State business filing fees: NC SOS – Fees.
Common pitfalls:
- Paying a non-government website with outdated fee tables.
- Buying an annual permit that you don’t yet need (e.g., ABC) before your location is ready.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a fee seems off, call 311 (local permits) or the agency listed on the fee schedule and ask for the “current fee schedule” link before paying.
Real-world Charlotte examples (how this plays out)
Example A: Small coffee shop in Plaza Midwood
- You verify zoning allows a café at the chosen address (before signing).
- Your architect submits plans to LUESA for building and mechanical permits for the espresso bar, sinks, and ventilation.
- You submit food establishment plans to Mecklenburg County Environmental Health for plan review, purchase equipment that meets code, and schedule a pre-opening inspection.
- You register with NCDOR for sales tax, buy workers’ comp when you reach 3 employees, and register with DES.
- Before opening, you pass final inspections, receive the CO, and complete your health permit inspection.
Example B: E‑commerce apparel with a small office/warehouse in University City
- Zoning confirms office/warehouse use is permitted at your address.
- No build‑out permits needed; you still need a CO if the space is new to your business.
- You register with NCDOR for sales tax (goods shipped to NC customers are generally taxable).
- You file your business personal property listing by January 31 for warehouse racks, computers, and office furniture.
Example C: Mobile food unit (food truck)
- You secure a commissary agreement with a permitted kitchen in Charlotte.
- Your truck is built to meet NC food code and local fire code. You pass Environmental Health inspection for a mobile food unit and get a fire safety inspection.
- You register with NCDOR for sales tax and confirm where mobile vending is allowed (hours, spacing, and zoned lots). Start with 311 for local vending rules and required approvals.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping zoning confirmation and then learning your use is not allowed after you sign a lease.
- Treating Charlotte like it has a “one and done” business license; you miss sales tax, health, or fire permits.
- Buying equipment (hoods, sinks, suppression) that can’t meet code.
- Forgetting business personal property listing by January 31.
- Paying a third-party for an EIN (it’s $0 from the IRS).
- Assuming home-based businesses have no limits (parking, signage, employees on-site) and getting cited.
- Applying for an ABC permit before you have zoning approval and inspections aligned.
- Not registering for withholding and unemployment before the first payroll.
- Missing required workplace posters and injury reporting.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’ve already made a misstep, contact 311 or the relevant agency quickly. Most issues are fixable with a plan and clear deadlines.
- If cash is tight due to delays, ask your landlord for a build-out schedule amendment that ties rent commencement to inspections/CO.
Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility: Charlotte and North Carolina resources
- City of Charlotte – Charlotte Business INClusion (CBI) program: Certification and opportunities for MWSBE (Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprises) on City contracts. Start via charlottenc.gov (search “CBI”).
- North Carolina Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB): State certification recognized by many public entities. Source: NC HUB Office (NC Department of Administration).
- Women’s Business Center of Charlotte: Training and counseling for women entrepreneurs. Find the Charlotte WBC via the SBA resource partner locator: SBA – Find local assistance.
- Veterans: Federal certification for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) and Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB) through SBA’s Veteran certification program. Source: SBA – Veteran Small Business Certification.
- Minority supplier development: Carolinas-Virginia MSDC (regional NMSDC affiliate) connects minority-owned firms with corporate supply chains. Source: CVMSDC – About.
- LGBTQ+-owned: NGLCC certification (often recognized by corporate supplier diversity programs). Source: National LGBT Chamber of Commerce – Certification.
- Disability-owned: Disability:IN’s Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) certification. Source: Disability:IN – Certification.
- Immigrant-owned and language access: City 311 supports multiple languages; Mecklenburg County agencies provide interpreter services on request. Start with 311 or the specific department page at mecknc.gov.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re unsure which certification helps you most, book a free advising session through the SBA North Carolina District Office and ask for “certification strategy” counseling.
Tables you can use to plan
Table: Who to contact for what in Charlotte/Mecklenburg
| Topic | First stop | Phone | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| City services triage (zoning, permits, fire routing) | Charlotte 311 | 311 or 704-336-7600 | City of Charlotte |
| Building permits, inspections, CO | Mecklenburg County LUESA | — | Mecklenburg County LUESA |
| Environmental Health (food service) | Mecklenburg County Public Health | — | Mecklenburg County Public Health |
| State sales/use, withholding | NCDOR | 1-877-252-3052 | NCDOR – Business Registration |
| Unemployment insurance (employers) | DES | — | DES – Employers |
| ABC permits | NC ABC Commission | — | ABC – Permits |
| Business entity formation | NC SOS | — | SOS – Business Registration |
| Workers’ comp rules | NC Industrial Commission | — | NCIC |
| DBA / Assumed Name | SOS (statewide index) + Meck ROD | — | SOS – Assumed Business Names |
| Business personal property listing | Mecklenburg County Assessor | — | Mecklenburg County Assessor |
Table: Tax registrations checklist (NC)
| Registration | Who needs it | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIN (IRS) | Most businesses; required to hire employees | $0 | IRS – EIN |
| Sales & Use Tax (NCDOR) | Sellers of taxable goods/services in NC | $0 | NCDOR – Business Registration |
| Withholding (NCDOR) | Employers with payroll in NC | $0 | NCDOR – Business Registration |
| Unemployment Insurance (DES) | Employers meeting wage/employee thresholds | $0 to register | DES – Employers |
Table: Common Charlotte approvals by business model
| Business model | Zoning/CO | Health | Fire | State license | Sales tax | ABC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail shop | Likely yes | Not usually | Maybe (assembly) | No | Likely yes | No |
| Office/professional services | Likely yes | No | No | Maybe (profession) | Maybe | No |
| Restaurant/café | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Maybe |
| Salon/barber | Yes | Yes (shop license) | Maybe | Yes (practitioners) | Yes (products) | No |
| Food truck | Zoning rules for vending | Yes (mobile food unit) | Yes | No | Yes | No (unless selling alcohol) |
Table: Opening sequence you can adapt
| Week | Task | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Confirm zoning/use; sketch floor plan; rough budget | You + landlord/architect |
| 1 | Form entity (SOS) and get EIN | You |
| 1–2 | Register with NCDOR (sales/withholding) and DES (UI) | You |
| 2–4 | Submit building and health plans; order compliant equipment | Architect/contractor + You |
| 4–8 | Plan reviews, revisions, inspections | You + team |
| 7–9 | Fire inspections; final building inspections; CO | You + contractor |
| 8–9 | ABC permit (if applicable) aligned with local sign‑off | You |
| 9 | Business personal property list prep (if open by year‑end) | You |
| 9–10 | Soft opening; compliance checklists; posters; training | You |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a task stalls, ask for a plan review meeting or escalation path. Agencies will usually help if you come with specific questions and a complete application.
10 North Carolina/Charlotte FAQs (with official sources)
- Do I need a general “City of Charlotte business license”?
- For most businesses: No. North Carolina repealed most local privilege license requirements effective July 1, 2015. Source: NC Session Law 2014‑3.
- What is the Charlotte/Mecklenburg sales tax rate?
- The combined state and local rate is generally 7.25%. Confirm current rates: NCDOR – County Sales Tax Rates.
- Is the sales tax permit free?
- Yes, NCDOR registration is $0. Source: NCDOR – Business Registration.
- When is the business personal property listing due?
- January 31 each year. Start here: Mecklenburg County Assessor.
- Do I need a North Carolina general contractor license?
- If you bid on or manage construction projects of $40,000 or more. Source: NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
- I’m a home-based business. Anything special?
- Charlotte’s home occupation rules limit certain activities (e.g., signage, employees on-site, parking). Verify with 311 before you open.
- How long do ABC permits take?
- Several weeks is typical because ABC requires local sign‑off and background checks. Start: NC ABC Commission – Permits.
- Do online sellers need to collect NC sales tax from NC customers?
- Generally yes if the sale is taxable. Register with NCDOR: Business Registration. For remote/economic nexus rules, see: NCDOR – Remote Sales Guidance.
- How do I register a DBA (assumed name) in Mecklenburg County?
- File an Assumed Business Name with the county Register of Deeds; it’s indexed statewide. Start: SOS – Assumed Business Names.
- Who can help me for free with a business plan and permits?
- Call 311 for local permitting triage, and contact the SBA North Carolina District Office to connect with SBTDC, SCORE, or the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte.
“If this doesn’t work” – practical Plan B options by situation
- Lease is stuck because of permit uncertainty
- Ask for a lease contingency tied to obtaining permits/CO by a specific date, or an early-access clause for permitting.
- Budget blowout after plan review
- Value-engineer with your architect/contractor to meet code at lower cost. Ask LUESA if alternates are allowed.
- ABC permit delayed
- Open without alcohol and add beer/wine later; focus on food and non-alcoholic offerings in your first weeks.
- Health permit delayed
- Consider a phased opening (e.g., beverages and packaged food only, if compliant) or operate as a caterer out of an approved commissary until your dine‑in space is cleared (only if rules allow—verify with Environmental Health).
- Hiring delays
- Use staffing agencies or part-time contracts while finishing DES and workers’ comp setup (ensure you stay compliant with labor classification rules).
How to apply: document checklists
Bring these early; missing documents are the top cause of delays.
- Zoning/use confirmation
- Address, suite number, description of activities, proposed hours, parking/loading info.
- Building permits
- Sealed drawings (if required), equipment specs, contractor licenses, energy/mechanical forms, asbestos letter (where required).
- Environmental Health (food)
- Menu, equipment list with cut sheets, scaled floor plan with plumbing and mechanical, finish schedules, hot water and waste details, commissary agreement for mobile units.
- ABC permits
- Entity docs, lease/deed, floor plan, background checks, local government compliance form, inspection sign‑offs.
- Tax registrations
- EIN, NAICS code, start date, owner/manager information.
Search-friendly, real-world keywords that match this guide
- “Do I need a business license in Charlotte NC?”
- “Charlotte NC Certificate of Occupancy process”
- “Mecklenburg County food permit application”
- “North Carolina sales tax registration for small business”
- “Charlotte NC home occupation rules”
- “How to get an ABC permit in North Carolina”
- “Mecklenburg County building permit fees”
- “North Carolina contractor license threshold 40000”
- “Charlotte sign permit application”
- “Mecklenburg County business personal property listing January 31”
What to do next (action list you can follow this week)
- Call 311 or 704-336-7600 and confirm your use is allowed at your target address; ask for any special approvals you’ll need.
- If you haven’t formed your entity, file with NC SOS – Business Registration and get your free EIN at IRS – EIN.
- Register for sales/use (and withholding if hiring) at NCDOR – Business Registration. If you’ll have employees, open a DES UI account at des.nc.gov.
- If you’re food/alcohol/personal care/childcare/construction, pull your industry’s permit checklist from the links in this guide.
- Calendar your business personal property listing for January 31 if you will own equipment or furnishings this year.
About this guide
This guide is written for everyday Charlotte founders and owners who need a practical, no‑nonsense path to get legal and open. It focuses on the most common steps, agencies, and trouble spots for Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, with direct links to official sources. It is not legal or tax advice; always confirm details with the agency links provided.
Disclaimer
Information and program details can change. Fees, timelines, tax rates, and rules are updated by the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and North Carolina agencies. Always verify requirements, deadlines, and amounts using the official links in this guide before you apply or pay any fees. If you have specific legal or tax questions, consult a qualified North Carolina attorney or CPA.