Denver, CO Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help box

The Denver basics most people miss (start here)

Quick reality checks

  • Sales tax in Colorado is complex because Colorado is a “home‑rule” state. Denver collects its own city sales/use taxes separately from the state. Your state license doesn’t automatically cover Denver. Use the City’s portal for Denver returns [source: Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].
  • If you have employees working in Denver, the City’s Occupational Privilege Tax (head tax) usually applies when an employee earns at least $500 in a month in Denver [source: Denver Treasury – Occupational Privilege Tax (OPT)]. The OPT has both employee and employer portions. Confirm the current monthly rates and filing rules on the City’s official OPT page.
  • Minimum wage in Denver is higher than the statewide minimum and changes annually on January 1. Always check the current year’s rate on the official page before you hire or schedule staff [source: Denver Labor – Minimum Wage].
  • For restaurants, mobile food, markets, or caterers: you will work with Denver’s local health department and likely need a retail food license and inspections before opening [source: Denver Department of Public Health & Environment – Food Safety & Licensing].
  • For alcohol sales: plan for neighborhood posting/notification, local hearings, and state review. Build your timeline around this; it is not a quick license [source: Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division – Licensing]. Also check the City’s liquor licensing page on the Denver Business Licensing hub.

Table: Where to register what (Denver vs State vs Federal)

Task Who requires it Where to apply Notes/links
Form a company (LLC, Corp, etc.) State Colorado Secretary of State – Business Filings Check current filing fees on the official fee schedule. Fees have changed in recent years; verify before filing.
Get an EIN (Tax ID) Federal IRS – Apply for an EIN (free) EIN is free ($0). Needed for payroll and many bank accounts.
Colorado Sales Tax License State MyBizColorado or Colorado DOR – Sales Tax State base rate is 2.9%; local and special district taxes are extra.
Denver Sales/Use Tax Account City Denver eBiz Tax Center (city tax filing) Denver is a home‑rule city. Separate registration and returns.
Denver Occupational Privilege Tax (Head Tax) City Denver Treasury – OPT Triggers when an employee earns at least $500 in a calendar month in Denver (employee and employer portions).
Regulated city business license(s) (e.g., liquor, short‑term rental, body art, food truck) City Denver Business Licensing – License Directory Application steps, fees, inspections vary by license.
Unemployment insurance registration State CDLE – Employers (Unemployment) Required if you have employees in Colorado.
Paid Family & Medical Leave (FAMLI) State Colorado FAMLI – Employers Premium rate is 0.9% of wages (up to Social Security cap), typically split 50/50; employers with fewer than 10 employees are exempt from the employer share [source: FAMLI].
Paid Sick Leave (HFWA) State CDLE – HFWA Paid Sick Leave Accrual at 1 hour per 30 hours worked; at least 48 hours per year must be provided (see official rules).

Do you actually need a Denver city business license?

Start here:

Common examples

  • Home‑based graphic designer in Montbello: No City “business license” required, but you still need to follow home occupation rules and file taxes. You likely need a Denver tax account if you have taxable use of equipment and supplies in the City. Check zoning rules for home occupations via Denver CPD – Home Occupations.
  • Coffee shop in Capitol Hill: You’ll need Denver health licensing/inspection (retail food), a Denver tax account, possibly a City business license if it fits a regulated category (e.g., sidewalk café permit), and zoning/building permits for tenant improvements [source: DDPHE – Food Safety, CPD – Permits].
  • Short‑term rental host in Baker: City license required, and it must be your primary residence. There are firm rules and inspections/verification steps [source: Denver Short‑Term Rental Licensing].
  • Liquor store or bar in LoDo: You’ll go through both City (local) and State (DOR Liquor Enforcement) steps, neighborhood notice, and hearings. Expect a longer timeline [source: Colorado LED – Licensing, Denver Business Licensing – Liquor].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call Denver 311 for routing to the right division: 311 or 720‑913‑1311 [source: Denver 311]. If you still aren’t sure whether your activity requires a license, use the contact form or phone on the specific license page within Denver Business Licensing.

Step‑by‑step: The cleanest path to open legally in Denver

Follow this order to avoid rework. If you’re in a regulated industry, you may run some steps in parallel (e.g., zoning checks while your state filings are in progress).

Step 1 — Register your business with the Colorado Secretary of State

  • File your entity (LLC, corporation, etc.) with the Colorado Secretary of State – Business. You’ll get an ID number and validated entity record.
  • Name availability and trade names are also handled by the SOS on the same portal [source: Colorado SOS – Business Database & Filing].
  • Fees change and may be temporarily reduced by statute or budget acts. Confirm the current filing fee on the SOS fee schedule before you submit.

Required documents:

  • Your business name and registered agent information
  • Principal office and mailing address
  • Member/officer information (depending on entity type)

Realistic timeline:

  • Online filings are usually processed same day.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 2 — Get an EIN from the IRS (free)

  • Apply online for an EIN at IRS – Apply for an EIN.
  • Cost: $0.
  • You’ll need this to open a bank account, hire employees, or if your bank requires it even for single‑member LLCs.

Realistic timeline:

  • Immediate online issuance for most applicants.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 3 — Get your Colorado state tax accounts (sales tax, wage withholding)

  • Use MyBizColorado to set up your Colorado Department of Revenue accounts. If you sell taxable goods, you need a state sales tax license. State sales tax base rate is 2.9% [source: Colorado DOR – Sales Tax].
  • If you have employees, register for Colorado wage withholding and unemployment accounts (withholding via DOR; unemployment via CDLE).

Required documents:

  • EIN, SOS entity number, NAICS code, ownership details
  • Business locations where you have nexus

Realistic timeline:

  • Sales tax license numbers are often issued quickly online. Paper license mailed later.
  • Withholding accounts are typically issued within a few days.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Colorado Department of Revenue Taxpayer Assistance: 303‑238‑7378; see DOR – Contact Us.
  • Unemployment (CDLE) employer help: see CDLE – Employers for contact options and online registration.

Step 4 — Register with the City of Denver for local taxes (sales/use and OPT)

  • Create a City tax account via the City’s online portal and register for relevant Denver taxes (sales, use, lodger’s, OPT). Start at Denver Treasury – Business Taxes.
  • Occupational Privilege Tax (OPT) applies when an employee earns at least $500 in a month within Denver, and there are both employee and employer portions [source: Denver Treasury – OPT]. Confirm the current monthly rates and due dates.
  • Denver is a home‑rule city. Even if you are licensed by the state, you must separately register, collect, and file City taxes if you’re doing taxable business in Denver [source: Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].

Required documents:

  • EIN, business legal name, business location address(es)
  • Owner contact info and NAICS code
  • If applicable, estimated tax liability to set filing frequency

Realistic timeline:

  • Online account setup is typically quick. Filing frequency and due dates are assigned by the City. Due dates vary (monthly/quarterly/annual); confirm your assignment letter and the City’s website.
  • Many returns are due shortly after the close of the period. Always verify the deadline on the City’s site before filing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 5 — Check zoning/use and building needs for your Denver location

  • Before you sign a lease or build out space, confirm your use is allowed at the address. Use Denver Community Planning & Development (CPD) – Zoning & Permits.
  • If needed, get a Zoning Use Permit and any building permits for tenant improvements. Some uses trigger Fire Department requirements (e.g., assembly, hazardous materials).

Required documents:

  • Site plan or floor plan
  • Description of business activity and anticipated occupancy
  • Contractor info for building permits

Realistic timeline:

  • Simple zoning verifications can be quick. Building permits and plan review timelines vary widely (days to weeks), depending on scope and whether you need reviews by multiple departments.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact CPD through the City’s main site (search “Planning and Development contact”) or use Denver 311: 311 or 720‑913‑1311. For complex projects, consider scheduling a pre‑application meeting through CPD’s service options listed on the City’s website.

Step 6 — Apply for City of Denver business license(s) if your activity is regulated

  • Go to the City’s license directory to find your exact license type and follow the checklist: Denver Business Licensing – License Directory.
  • Common City‑licensed activities include liquor, marijuana, short‑term rentals, body art, security, towing, retail food (mobile/temporary/market), and more.

Required documents (varies by license):

  • Proof of zoning suitability
  • Floor plans/site plans
  • Background checks or fingerprints (for some licenses)
  • Health inspection approvals (for food/body art)
  • Proof of lawful presence (for individual licenses)
  • Insurance/bond documentation (for some license types)

Realistic timeline:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Use the contact info listed on your specific license page within Denver Business Licensing, or call Denver 311: 311 or 720‑913‑1311 to be routed to Excise & Licenses.

Table: Who needs a City of Denver license?

Activity City license likely required? Primary office Where to verify/apply
Bar, tavern, liquor store Yes Denver Excise & Licenses (City) and Colorado LED (State) Denver Business Licensing – Liquor Licensing and Colorado LED – Licensing
Short‑term rental (Airbnb/VRBO) Yes (must be your primary residence) Denver Excise & Licenses Denver Short‑Term Rental Licensing
Retail food (restaurant/food truck/catering/market) Yes (health license/inspection; sometimes additional City licenses/permits) Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE); coordination with Excise & Licenses as needed DDPHE – Food Safety & Licensing
Body art (tattoo/piercing) Yes Denver Excise & Licenses + DDPHE Denver Business Licensing – Body Art
Security guard agency/guard Yes Denver Excise & Licenses Denver Business Licensing – Security
Private towing, vehicle for hire Yes Denver Excise & Licenses Denver Business Licensing – Vehicles/Towing
Contractor licenses (for building work) Yes (if performing permitted work in Denver) Denver Community Planning & Development (CPD) CPD – Contractor Licensing
Home‑based services (consulting/design) Usually no City “license” Still must follow zoning/home occupation rules CPD – Home Occupations

Taxes you’ll likely deal with (and who collects them)

  • Sales/use taxes: State and Denver (home‑rule)
  • Employee taxes and benefits: Withholding (state), Unemployment Insurance (state), FAMLI (state), Occupational Privilege Tax (city)
  • Industry‑specific: Lodger’s tax (short‑term rentals/hotels), Occupational taxes (certain industries), Marijuana, Liquor excise/system fees (state + city), Admissions/seat taxes (where applicable)

Table: Taxes and where to file

Tax Level Who collects How to apply/file Rate info
Sales tax State Colorado DOR MyBizColorado / DOR Sales Tax State base rate 2.9%; local add‑ons vary by jurisdiction.
Sales/use tax City Denver Treasury Denver eBiz Tax Center Denver rates and filing rules published on the City site. Confirm current rates.
Lodger’s tax City Denver Treasury Denver Treasury – Lodger’s Tax Short‑term rentals/hotels must register and remit; see City page for current rates.
Occupational Privilege Tax (Head Tax) City Denver Treasury Denver Treasury – OPT Applies when employee earns ≥ $500/month in Denver; both employee and employer portions.
Withholding State Colorado DOR Colorado DOR – Withholding Rates follow state tax rules; see official guidance.
Unemployment Insurance State CDLE CDLE – Employers Employer‑specific rates assigned by CDLE.
Paid Family & Medical Leave (FAMLI) State FAMLI Division FAMLI – Employers 0.9% premium, typically split 50/50 employee/employer; < 10 employees exempt from employer share.
What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Denver tax help via 311: 311 or 720‑913‑1311.
  • Colorado DOR tax help: 303‑238‑7378 [source: DOR – Contact].
  • FAMLI employer help: see contact options on FAMLI – Employers.
  • CDLE employer help: see CDLE – Employers for registration and assistance links.

Permits, inspections, and approvals (don’t skip these)

  • Zoning/use permits: Check your address and use classification early. If not allowed by right, consider a location change or consult CPD about options [source: Denver CPD – Zoning & Permits].
  • Building permits: Needed for structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work. Unpermitted work leads to delays and fines [source: Denver CPD – Building Permits].
  • Fire Department: Assembly uses, commercial kitchens, hazardous storage, high‑pile storage, or special events may require Denver Fire approvals [source: Denver Fire Department – Fire Prevention & Safety].
  • Health (DDPHE): Retail food service, mobile food, body art, and similar activities require health plans/inspections [source: DDPHE – Food Safety & Licensing].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • For zoning/building, call 311 or visit CPD pages via Denver.gov.
  • For health licensing, use the contact listed on DDPHE – Food Safety & Licensing.
  • For fire safety questions, contact the Denver Fire Prevention division via the City’s site.

Home‑based businesses in Denver

  • Denver allows many home occupations, but with limits on traffic, signage, noise, and certain activities. Start with CPD – Home Occupations and check your address’s zoning.
  • If you sell online and ship products, you still need to handle state and city taxes. If you store inventory at home, check whether any zoning limits apply to your situation [source: Denver CPD – Zoning].
  • If clients visit your home, verify whether that’s allowed and under what conditions in your zone district.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Use Denver 311: 311 or 720‑913‑1311 for routing to CPD to discuss specific home occupation questions.
  • If your home use is not allowed, consider a co‑working space, office flex space, or shared commercial kitchen (for food businesses) that meets zoning requirements.

Real‑world examples (Denver scenarios)

  • Coffee shop build‑out in Capitol Hill: The owner formed an LLC with the SOS, obtained an EIN, registered for state sales tax and Denver tax accounts, then worked with CPD for tenant improvement permits (mechanical hood, plumbing, electrical). They scheduled a health plan review with DDPHE for retail food, coordinated fire suppression for the hood, and applied for a sidewalk café permit. They planned 8–12 weeks for permits/inspections before opening. Official references: DDPHE – Food Safety, CPD – Permits, Denver Business Licensing.
  • Home baker in Green Valley Ranch: The baker checked whether their food falls under Colorado Cottage Foods (state‑level allowance) or requires a licensed kitchen. They reviewed CDPHE – Cottage Foods for state rules and worked with DDPHE if moving beyond cottage foods. They still needed Denver use tax filings on equipment and supplies. References: CDPHE – Cottage Foods, Denver Treasury – Business Taxes.
  • Short‑term rental host in Baker: The homeowner verified it was their primary residence, applied for the City STR license, and registered for Denver lodger’s tax. They also confirmed HOA rules. References: Denver Short‑Term Rental Licensing, Denver Treasury – Lodger’s Tax.
  • Tattoo studio in Five Points: The owner got zoning clearance for the space, ensured proper sanitation and health standards, and applied for the City’s body art license. They planned for inspections and staff training records. References: Denver Business Licensing – Body Art, DDPHE – Body Art/Health.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Book free advising with Denver Metro SBDC or call Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) to get routed to the right team for your exact scenario.

Timelines: What to expect (and why it varies)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your application stalls, check your online portal for status notes and required documents.
  • Escalate via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) or the contact on your license/permit page.
  • For state tax accounts, call Colorado DOR at 303‑238‑7378.

Table: Typical sequence (minimizes rework)

Order Action Why this order matters
1 SOS business registration Bank accounts, contracts, tax accounts require a legal entity.
2 EIN Needed for payroll, bank, and many applications.
3 State sales tax/withholding via MyBizColorado Sets up state accounts before local registrations.
4 Denver tax accounts (sales/use, OPT, lodger’s) Denver is home‑rule; city filings are separate.
5 Zoning check and building permits Confirms your location is legal and build‑out is permitted.
6 Health/fire plan reviews (if required) Prevents rework of build‑out and ensures compliance.
7 City license applications (if required) Submit after you have proof of zoning and plan approvals.
8 Open and begin filing taxes Avoid late filings and penalties by noting due dates early.

Employment rules in Denver/Colorado you must not ignore

  • Denver minimum wage: Higher than Colorado’s statewide wage and adjusted annually on January 1. Always confirm the current rate on the official page before running payroll [source: Denver Labor – Minimum Wage].
  • State paid sick leave (HFWA): Accrue at 1 hour per 30 hours worked; at least 48 hours per year must be provided. Additional emergency leave can be required under certain conditions [source: CDLE – HFWA].
  • Paid Family & Medical Leave (FAMLI): Premiums total 0.9% of wages (up to Social Security cap), typically split 50/50; employers with fewer than 10 employees are exempt from the employer portion but must remit the employee share [source: Colorado FAMLI – Employers].
  • Occupational Privilege Tax (Denver): Applies when an employee earns at least $500 in a calendar month in Denver; both employee and employer must pay their portions [source: Denver Treasury – OPT].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Fees and rates: Where to find the real numbers (no guessing)

Because fees and tax rates change by ordinance, ballot, or state law, always confirm on the official page:

Common mistakes to avoid (Denver‑specific)

  • Not registering for Denver city taxes because you registered with the state. Denver is home‑rule; you must register and file separately [source: Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].
  • Signing a lease before checking zoning/use. If your use isn’t allowed, you can lose months and $$$ on holdover rent while you seek a different location [source: Denver CPD – Zoning].
  • Skipping health/fire plan reviews for restaurants or assembly uses. You’ll pay twice to fix build‑outs that don’t pass inspections [source: DDPHE – Food Safety].
  • Assuming you don’t owe OPT because you’re small. OPT can apply once an employee earns $500 in a month in Denver [source: Denver Treasury – OPT].
  • Missing Denver minimum wage updates on January 1. Always verify current year’s rate [source: Denver Labor – Minimum Wage].
  • Not posting liquor notices or missing hearing deadlines. Liquor licensing has formal steps and timelines [source: Colorado LED – Licensing].
  • Using the wrong sales tax rate. State is 2.9%, but Denver and other local districts add rates. Use official tools or the City’s tables [source: Colorado DOR – Sales Tax, Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) for routing to the correct division.
  • For tax rate questions, call Colorado DOR at 303‑238‑7378 and use Denver’s Treasury pages for local rates.

What documents you’ll likely need (checklist)

  • SOS formation documents (Articles of Organization/Incorporation)
  • EIN letter from IRS
  • Government‑issued ID for owners/agents
  • Lease or proof of premises
  • Floor/site plans (as applicable)
  • Zoning/use approvals
  • Building permits and inspection certificates
  • Health department approvals (if food/body art)
  • Insurance/bond documentation (if required by license)
  • Sales tax license numbers (state) and Denver tax account numbers

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re not sure what you’re missing, look for the “Checklist” or “Required Documents” section on your specific license page at Denver Business Licensing or call 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311).

Table: Contacts that actually pick up (and what to ask)

Topic Agency How to reach What to ask
City license requirements Denver Excise & Licenses 311 or 720‑913‑1311; Denver Business Licensing hub “Do I need a City license for [activity]? What is the current fee and timeline?”
City taxes (sales/use, OPT, lodger’s) Denver Treasury 311 or 720‑913‑1311; Business Taxes “How do I register and file? What are my due dates and rates?”
Zoning/building permits Denver CPD 311 or 720‑913‑1311; CPD – Zoning & Permits “Is [address] zoned for [use]? Do I need a Zoning Use Permit or building permit?”
Food/body art health DDPHE 311 or 720‑913‑1311; DDPHE – Food Safety “What health licenses/inspections do I need? How do I schedule a pre‑opening inspection?”
State sales tax and withholding Colorado DOR 303‑238‑7378; DOR – Sales Tax “Which license do I need and how do I add locations?”
Liquor licensing Colorado LED See contacts at LED – Licensing “What are the local posting and state timelines for my license type?”
Marijuana licensing Colorado MED See contacts at MED – Licensing “What are the current local/state steps and fees for my license type?”
Unemployment CDLE See CDLE – Employers “How do I set up my employer account and understand my rate?”
FAMLI FAMLI Division See FAMLI – Employers “How do I register, report wages, and remit premiums?”

Industry spotlights (Denver specifics you asked for)

Liquor

  • You must satisfy both City and State processes: local hearings (where required), public posting, and state application with the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division [source: Colorado LED – Licensing, Denver Business Licensing – Liquor].
  • Timelines vary by neighborhood and license type. Budget several months.
  • You will need zoning suitability for the location and a clear floor plan.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact the local licensing authority via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) and review the state’s checklists on LED – Licensing.

Marijuana

  • Denver licenses marijuana businesses and coordinates with the State Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED). Requirements include background checks, security plans, and facility compliance [source: MED – Licensing, Denver Business Licensing – Marijuana].
  • Expect a multi‑month process, inspections, and detailed operating rules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Short‑Term Rentals (STR)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact the STR team through the City’s STR licensing page or call 311: 311 or 720‑913‑1311.

Food businesses

  • If you’re beyond Colorado’s Cottage Foods rules, you’ll need an approved commercial kitchen and DDPHE health licensing. Plan reviews and pre‑opening inspections are required [source: CDPHE – Cottage Foods, DDPHE – Food Safety & Licensing].
  • Mobile vendors (food trucks) need commissary agreements, parking/location rules, and often multiple inspections [source: DDPHE – Food Safety].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Use the DDPHE contact options listed on the Food Safety page and Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311).

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in Denver (real resources)

  • Denver Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO): Certification programs for Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE), Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). Certification can help you compete for City and federally‑funded projects. See Denver DSBO – Certifications and Bidding Opportunities.
  • Minority Business Office of Colorado (within OEDIT): Counseling, connections, and resources for minority‑, women‑, and veteran‑owned businesses statewide. See OEDIT – Minority Business Office.
  • Veteran‑owned businesses: Consider federal and state certifications and resources through U.S. SBA – Veteran Assistance and local counseling at the SBDC: Denver Metro SBDC.
  • Women‑owned certification: For federal contracting, see SBA – Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program. For supplier diversity, also consider private certifications (WBENC) in addition to City’s M/WBE (DSBO).
  • Disability‑owned certification: Explore U.S. SBA resource partners directory and check procurement preferences via DSBO (City) and federal programs.
  • LGBTQ+‑owned: The City does not (as of this writing) have a standalone LGBTQ+ certification, but many agencies and primes accept national certifications. Also leverage City SBE/EBE/DBE programs via Denver DSBO. Use SBDC advisors for bid strategies: Denver Metro SBDC.
  • Immigrant‑owned and language access: Denver 311 provides language access; ask for interpretation when you call 311 or 720‑913‑1311. State portals increasingly offer Spanish content (e.g., MyBizColorado has Spanish language support). For legal status/work authorization questions, consult qualified legal aid; see Colorado Office of New Americans for statewide resources.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Book a no‑cost appointment with the SBDC to map the right certification path: Denver Metro SBDC.
  • For City certification specifics and the most current lists, contact DSBO through the City’s site.

Frequently asked questions (Denver/Colorado)

  • Do all Denver businesses need a City license?
  • What is the base Colorado state sales tax rate?
    • 2.9%. Local/home‑rule jurisdictions like Denver add their own rates. Always verify your location’s combined rate before charging customers [source: Colorado DOR – Sales Tax].
  • Do I need a separate Denver sales/use tax account if I already have a state sales tax license?
    • Yes, if you are doing taxable business in Denver. Denver is a home‑rule city and requires its own tax registration and filing [source: Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].
  • What triggers Denver’s Occupational Privilege Tax (head tax)?
    • When an employee earns at least $500 in a calendar month while working in Denver, both the employer and employee portions generally apply. Verify the current monthly amounts and filing schedule on the City page [source: Denver Treasury – OPT].
  • Does Denver allow home‑based businesses?
  • I’m opening a restaurant. What licenses do I need?
  • What’s the current Denver minimum wage?
  • How long does a liquor license take?
    • Several months is common due to neighborhood posting/hearing and state review. Timelines vary; check City/State guidance for your license type [source: Colorado LED – Licensing].
  • Do short‑term rentals need a City license?
  • Where can I get free help in Denver?

“What if this doesn’t work?” — Plan B playbook

  • Can’t tell if you need a City license? Call Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) and ask to be routed to Excise & Licenses for your specific activity [source: Denver 311].
  • Stuck on sales tax rates or licensing? Use Colorado DOR – Sales Tax for state accounts and call 303‑238‑7378.
  • Lease signed but zoning doesn’t fit? Ask CPD about options (e.g., alternate locations or allowable uses) via CPD – Zoning & Permits or 311.
  • Liquor/marijuana delays? Confirm you’ve met all posting/hearing steps and check state portals for pending items [source: Colorado LED, MED].
  • Need a guided path? Book the SBDC: Denver Metro SBDC.

Table: Documents and due dates to track

Item Where you’ll see it Why it matters
State sales tax license and account number DOR / MyBizColorado portal Collect/remit state sales tax and related filings.
Denver tax account number(s) Denver eBiz / City letter Required for city sales/use, lodger’s, OPT filings.
Filing frequency and due dates State and City assignment letters Missing deadlines can lead to penalties and interest.
Inspection approvals DDPHE, Fire, Building (CPD) Must pass to open; some approvals expire if unused.
City license certificate(s) Excise & Licenses Must be posted on premises (many license types).
Wage and leave notices State/City labor postings Labor compliance and employee rights.

Reality‑based tips

  • Build a 90‑day opening plan for restaurants and bars. Health, fire, and liquor steps don’t happen overnight. Expect multiple inspections [source: DDPHE, Colorado LED].
  • Keep one folder (digital) per tax account and license with due dates, correspondence, and certificates. Audits are much easier when files are organized.
  • If you change addresses, update your addresses in all portals (SOS, DOR, Denver). Mail is how you learn about rate changes, hearing notices, and late fees.
  • For sales tax rate accuracy, use official tools and City pages. Denver is home‑rule; the combined rate depends on address and special districts [source: Colorado DOR – Sales Tax, Denver Treasury – Business Taxes].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your filings or license applications are consistently delayed, request a status update through the portal and follow up with a call to the listed contact. Use 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) if you can’t find a direct number.

Table: Quick “who does what” for Denver businesses

Need Contact Link
City licensing (liquor, STR, body art, security, towing, marijuana, etc.) Denver Excise & Licenses via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) Denver Business Licensing – Main Hub
City taxes (sales/use, lodger’s, OPT) Denver Treasury via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) Denver Treasury – Business Taxes
Zoning/use permits, building permits Denver CPD via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) Denver CPD – Zoning & Permits
Health licensing (food/body art) DDPHE via Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311) DDPHE – Food Safety & Licensing
State sales tax licensing Colorado DOR (303‑238‑7378) Colorado DOR – Sales Tax
State business registration Colorado SOS (303‑894‑2200) SOS – Business
Unemployment insurance CDLE CDLE – Employers
Paid Family & Medical Leave FAMLI FAMLI – Employers

If you’re still deciding your structure (LLC, S‑Corp, etc.)

  • Colorado SOS handles all filings. Fees can change; verify the exact amount before filing [source: SOS – Fees].
  • For tax treatment (e.g., S‑Corp election), consult a CPA. IRS elections have hard deadlines each year.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

What to do after you open (so you don’t get fined)

  • Put filing reminders on your calendar for state and city returns as soon as you get your assignment letters.
  • Keep your registered agent and mailing address current at the SOS and City portals.
  • Renew licenses before they expire; some licenses require fresh inspections or updated documents each renewal.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss a filing, file as soon as possible and contact the agency for penalty/interest information. For Denver, start at Denver Treasury – Business Taxes or call 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311). For the state, call 303‑238‑7378.

About this guide

  • Sources: Every claim above points to an official government or well‑established resource (City and County of Denver, State of Colorado DOR/SOS/CDLE/FAMLI, Colorado LED/MED, DDPHE, CPD, and SBDC).
  • Dates: Information reflects the most accurate guidance available to us for late 2024–2025 processes. Fees and timelines change. Always confirm the current figures and due dates on the official links provided.
  • Coverage: This guide is specific to Denver, Colorado, and prioritizes the actions and agencies you’ll actually interact with.

Disclaimer

Program details, fees, timelines, and tax rates change. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Always verify the current requirements, rates, and due dates with the relevant agency using the official links and phone numbers provided. If in doubt, contact Denver 311 (311 or 720‑913‑1311), the Colorado Department of Revenue at 303‑238‑7378, or the Colorado Secretary of State at 303‑894‑2200.