Fort Worth, TX Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Fort Worth, Texas Business License Guide (No-Nonsense, 2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, people-first guide built for Fort Worth businesses. It cuts through fluff, focuses on real steps, real costs where available, timelines, required documents, and direct links to official sources. It also covers common mistakes, backup options, and resources for different communities of business owners.

Quick Help Box (scan this first)

How Fort Worth Business Licensing Really Works (Reality Check)

  • There’s no one-size-fits-all license. In Texas and in Fort Worth, you combine city permits (like a Certificate of Occupancy), county filings (like a DBA for sole proprietors), state permits (like sales tax, professional licenses), and sometimes federal approvals (like an FFL if you sell firearms).
  • Getting location and zoning cleared early saves weeks. Many delays happen because people sign a lease before verifying whether their use is allowed. Always start with zoning and occupancy.
  • Most costs are state-level (LLC fee, professional licenses). City permit costs depend on your project details (square footage, type of work, etc.).
  • Restaurants and bars take longer due to building/health/fire/TABC steps. Plan for several inspections.
  • Home-based businesses are easier but have zoning limits on customer traffic, signage, and noise.

Sources:

At-a-Glance: Common Fort Worth Business Steps, Agencies, Costs, and Timelines

Task Who Needs It Where to Apply Cost Typical Timeline Source
Certificate of Occupancy (commercial) Any business in a non-residential space Accela Permitting Portal Varies by use/square footage (see City schedule) 1–3+ weeks depending on inspections City Development Services
Zoning Check or Verification Before signing/using space City Development Services Usually no fee for basic check; letters may have a fee (verify) Same day to several days City of Fort Worth
Sales Tax Permit Sellers of taxable goods/services Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax $0 Same day to 2–3 weeks Texas Comptroller
EIN Most entities and employers IRS EIN Online $0 Same day online IRS
LLC/Corp Formation LLCs, corporations SOSDirect (Texas SOS) 300∗∗(LLC/Corp),∗∗300** (LLC/Corp), **25 (nonprofit) Same day to a few days Texas Secretary of State
DBA (Assumed Name) Sole proprietors/GPs (county), entities (state) Tarrant County Clerk — Assumed Names; Texas SOS — Assumed Names County fee varies; SOS assumed name $25 Same day to a few days Tarrant County Clerk, Texas SOS
Health Permit (Food) Restaurants, food trucks, food handlers City Consumer Health via Accela Varies; confirm on City fee schedule 2–6+ weeks with plan review/inspections City Code Compliance — Consumer Health
Alcohol Permit Bars, restaurants, retailers TABC AIMS Portal + City local approval Fees vary by permit class; city fees may apply 2–12+ weeks depending on class TABC
TWC Unemployment Tax Employers TWC — Unemployment Tax Rate varies; taxable wage base $9,000 Register in days; quarterly filings TWC
BOI Report (FinCEN) Many LLCs/corps FinCEN BOI E-Filing $0 File within 90 days (2024 entities) or 30 days (2025+); pre-2024 deadline Jan 1, 2025 FinCEN

Notes:

  • Costs marked “varies” depend on your square footage, scope, number of units, and permit class. Confirm using the linked official fee schedules or portals.

Step 1: Lock Down Your Location, Zoning, and Certificate of Occupancy

This is the critical first step if you’ll operate from a commercial space.

Action: Confirm zoning and apply for your Certificate of Occupancy (CO)

  • Check zoning before you sign a lease. Use the City’s Development Services resources and ask for a zoning verification if your use is not obvious (e.g., assembly, automotive, industrial). Start here: City of Fort Worth Development Services (official).
  • Apply for a Certificate of Occupancy through the City’s online portal. This confirms your use is allowed and that the space meets building, fire, and health codes. Apply: Fort Worth Accela Permitting Portal. Source: City of Fort Worth.
  • If you plan to build out or remodel, you’ll likely need building permits and plan review first. Same portal as above. State technical codes apply. Source: City of Fort Worth.
  • Expect inspections (building, fire, and possibly health). Failing an inspection can add days or weeks. Schedule early.
  • Timeline: In straightforward cases (no construction), you might complete zoning/CO in 1–3 weeks. Build-outs or change-of-use projects can take longer, especially if plans must be revised. Check your reviewer’s current timelines in your Accela account messages.

Required documents

  • Proposed business address, suite number, and description of use (e.g., “retail clothing,” “office,” “restaurant with on-premise dining,” “assembly hall”).
  • Floor plan or site plan if requested.
  • Lease or owner approval letter.
  • Contractor registration (if doing construction) and plans sealed by a design professional when required.
  • For food uses, equipment layout and finishes list (submit with health plan review).

Costs

  • CO and related permit fees depend on your occupancy and square footage. The City publishes fee schedules and calculates fees in Accela for your application. Check the fee section inside your Accela record for the exact amount. Source: City of Fort Worth Development Services.

Real-world example (what usually happens)

  • A salon leases a former office. Zoning allows personal services, but the plumbing count and accessibility need changes. They file building permits, do a plumbing rough-in, then inspections, then CO. Reality: budget extra time for construction inspections—especially if the prior use was different.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If your use isn’t allowed: Ask Development Services if a “use determination,” conditional use permit, or zoning change/variance is an option. These require more time and public hearings. Start by requesting guidance through the Development Services page.
  • If inspections keep failing: Ask the inspector for a detailed correction list and schedule a pre-final walk-through to confirm fixes before the next inspection.
  • If your landlord won’t allow required changes: Consider a different location that already fits your use to reduce build-out costs and delays.

Sources:

Step 2: Form Your Business (or File Your DBA) + Get Your EIN + BOI Reporting

Action: Choose your legal structure and register

  • LLC or Corporation: File a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State via SOSDirect. Filing fee: 300∗∗(LLCorcorporation).Nonprofitcorp:∗∗300** (LLC or corporation). Nonprofit corp: **25. Source: Texas SOS — Business Filings.
  • Sole Proprietor or General Partnership: File an Assumed Name (DBA) with the Tarrant County Clerk if you’re using a business name. Start here: Tarrant County Clerk — Assumed Names (DBA). County fees vary—verify on the Clerk’s page.
  • Entities using a DBA: You’ll file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Texas SOS as well. The SOS filing fee for an assumed name is $25. Source: Texas SOS — Assumed Name Certificate.
  • Get your EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS for $0: IRS EIN Online Application. Phone: 800-829-4933. Source: IRS.

Required documents

  • For LLC/Corp: Business name, registered agent info, governing persons/managers, principal office address, and payment card for SOSDirect.
  • For County DBA: Business name and owner names/addresses; valid ID; notary if required by the county; payment method per Clerk’s rules.
  • For EIN: Responsible party’s SSN/ITIN, mailing address, formation documents (helpful, not always required to be uploaded).

BOI reporting (FinCEN) — don’t skip this

Federal law (Corporate Transparency Act) requires many companies to report owners to FinCEN.

  • Who must file: Most LLCs, corporations, and similar entities unless exempt (e.g., certain large operating companies or regulated entities). See the exemptions list.
  • Deadlines: Pre-2024 companies must file by January 1, 2025. Formed in 2024: 90 days. Formed in 2025 or later: 30 days.
  • Cost: $0.
  • File here: FinCEN BOI E-Filing (official). Guidance: FinCEN Small Entity Compliance Guide and BOI FAQs.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • SOSDirect technical problems: Try during off-peak hours or call the SOS main line at 512-463-5555 (verify menu options) or use the contact info on the SOS site. Source: Texas SOS.
  • DBA help: If you’re unsure about the County Clerk’s DBA requirements, visit or call the Clerk directly using the contact info on the Tarrant County Clerk’s official page: Tarrant County Clerk — Contact.
  • BOI questions: Use FinCEN’s guidance and FAQs first; if you need legal advice, talk to a Texas business attorney.

Sources:

Step 3: Get Your Tax Accounts (Sales Tax, Franchise Tax, Employer)

Action: Apply for your Texas Sales Tax Permit

Franchise Tax (State margin tax)

  • No tax due threshold: $2,470,000 total revenue for reports due in 2024–2025. Entities at or below the threshold owe no franchise tax. Filing requirements changed starting in 2024—check if you still must file an information report. Source: Texas Franchise Tax Overview.
  • Tax rates and E-Z computation: Rates and E‑Z method details are on the Comptroller’s page. Check the current rate for your report year: Rates, Thresholds & Deduction Methods (official).

Employer accounts (payroll)

  • Unemployment tax: Register with the Texas Workforce Commission after you hire employees: TWC — Unemployment Tax. The taxable wage base is $9,000 per employee per year; tax rates vary by employer. Source: TWC.
  • Federal payroll taxes: Set up EFTPS, follow IRS deposit schedules, and file Forms 941/944 as required. IRS employer resources: IRS Employers (official).

Business personal property tax (local)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Sales tax permit delays/denial: Use your webfile or eSystems messages, or call the Comptroller’s taxpayer assistance at 800-252-5555 for status and next steps. Source: Texas Comptroller — Contact.
  • Franchise tax confusion: Use the Comptroller’s franchise tax assistance resources or ask a Texas CPA.
  • TWC account issues: Start with the TWC online guidance on the unemployment tax page and reach employer tax support through the contact options there: TWC Employer Contacts.

Sources:

Step 4: Industry-Specific Licenses and Permits (Fort Worth + Texas)

Not every business needs these, but when you do, they’re mandatory.

A) Food Establishments (restaurants, cafes, bakeries, caterers)

Action: Get City health approvals and permits early

  • Health plan review: For new or remodeled food establishments, submit plans for review via the City’s permitting portal: Accela Permitting Portal (official). Source: City — Consumer Health.
  • Health permit: After plan approval and pre-opening inspections, the City issues your permit. You’ll also be inspected periodically.
  • Food manager and handlers: Texas requires at least one certified food manager per establishment and food handler training for staff. See: Texas DSHS — Food Establishments. Use only accredited training providers.
  • Grease traps, ventilation, and equipment specs: These come up often. Your plans should show approved finishes and fixtures that meet code.

Required documents

  • Floor plan with equipment layout and materials/finishes.
  • Menu and processes (e.g., cooling, reheating).
  • Commissary letter, if applicable.
  • Food manager certificate (proof of certification).

Costs & timelines

  • Fees vary by square footage and risk category. Check the fee details inside your Accela record or the City fee schedule. Plan for 2–6+ weeks including plan review and inspections, depending on complexity and contractor readiness.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Failed health inspection: Request the written list of corrections and schedule a reinspection. Ask for a pre-opening consultation to catch issues earlier.
  • Plan review stuck: Message your reviewer in Accela, respond to comments promptly, and consider a code consultant if you’re getting conflicting requirements.

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B) Mobile Food Units (food trucks, trailers, carts)

Action: Confirm all three: health, fire, and commissary

  • Health permit: Fort Worth permits mobile units and requires a central preparation facility/commissary with restrooms and approved disposal. Apply in Accela.
  • Fire inspection: LP gas systems, generators, and fire suppression must pass inspection. See the Fire Department’s permits/resources via the City’s site: City of Fort Worth — Fire Department (official).
  • Commissary documentation: Keep updated commissary agreement letters on file.

Required documents

  • Unit layout, equipment list, propane/generator specs.
  • Commissary letter and restroom agreement.
  • Food manager certificate and staff food handler certificates.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Fire inspection failure: Ask for the exact NFPA/code section and required correction (e.g., piping, regulator, suppression tag). Schedule reinspection once fixed.
  • Commissary issues: Consider a different permitted kitchen that can support your hours and storage.

Sources:

C) Alcohol Sales (bars, restaurants, retailers)

Action: Apply through TABC’s AIMS and get local approvals

Required documents

  • Floor plan, site plan, and right to occupy the premises.
  • Entity documents (formation, ownership).
  • Location notices and publisher’s affidavit where required.

Costs & timelines

  • Fees vary widely by permit class and local fees. Verify using TABC’s fee charts: TABC Fees (official). Processing time ranges from a few weeks to a few months for complex locations.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Location fails distance rules: Ask TABC and the City whether a variance or different permit class could solve it; otherwise, change locations.
  • Protest or neighborhood issues: Work with your council district office and TABC on conditions (e.g., hours, security) to address concerns.

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D) Contractors, Trades, and Home Improvement

Action: Verify state licensing and register with the City for permits

  • Electricians, HVAC contractors: Licensed through TDLR. Verify or apply: Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (official).
  • Plumbers: Licensed through the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Verify or apply: TSBPE (official).
  • General contractors: Texas does not have a statewide “GC license,” but the City may require contractor registration to pull permits. Register and pull permits via Accela.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Licensing delays: Contact the licensing board listed above and verify your application completeness. Consider working under a supervising licensee while you await issuance if allowed.

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E) Personal Services (salons, barbers, massage)

Action: Confirm state license and City occupancy

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Facility not compliant: Ask for a pre-inspection checklist from TDLR and the City so you can fix issues before final.

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F) Child Care and Education

Action: Licensing and City permits

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Capacity limits/zoning issues: Speak with Development Services about allowable capacity and site requirements (parking, play areas) and HHS about alternative license categories.

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G) Auto, Pawn, Finance, Tobacco, Firearms

Action: Obtain state/federal permits as needed

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If a state regulator denies your application, ask what specific requirement failed and whether a different license type fits your business model (e.g., motor vehicle “independent dealer” vs. other categories).

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H) Signs, Alarms, Short-Term Rentals, Special Events

Action: Don’t forget these city-specific permits

  • Sign Permits: Most permanent signs need permits and inspections; some temporary signs are regulated. Apply via Accela. Source: City of Fort Worth.
  • Alarm Permits: Many commercial alarm systems require a city alarm permit to avoid fines. Start at the City’s Police/Alarm pages via fortworthtexas.gov.
  • Short-Term Rentals and Hotels: Review Fort Worth rules and hotel occupancy tax requirements. State hotel tax info: Comptroller — Hotel Occupancy Tax (official).
  • Special Events (street, park, amplified sound): Obtain special event permits via the City’s event permitting resources on fortworthtexas.gov.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If a sign plan is rejected, ask for the citing ordinance section and whether a variance is possible.
  • Alarm permit missed? Apply immediately to stop escalating false alarm fines.

Sources:

Home-Based Businesses in Fort Worth

Home-based is simpler, but rules still apply.

Action: Confirm home occupation rules and whether your activities fit

  • Home Occupation: The City’s zoning code limits customer visits, on-site employees, signage, noise, and visible inventory. Check the Fort Worth Code of Ordinances (Municode): Fort Worth Code of Ordinances (official). Search “Home Occupation.”
  • No Certificate of Occupancy for home-based offices in many cases, but verify. If you’re storing materials or having customer traffic, extra rules can apply.
  • Cottage Food (state law): Many non-hazardous foods can be made at home with labeling and training, without local health permits. Review Texas rules carefully: Texas DSHS — Cottage Food (official). Still confirm zoning if customers pick up from your home.
  • Sales Tax: If your product is taxable, you still need a Sales Tax Permit and must collect/remit sales tax, even from home. Apply: Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If your neighborhood/HOA bans certain business activities: Shift to delivery, online sales, or rent a small commercial suite or commissary for customer-facing operations.
  • If the City flags your home operation: Ask Development Services for what change would make it compliant (e.g., limit pickups, no signage).

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Which Permits Apply to Common Fort Worth Business Types

Business Type CO (City) Sales Tax Permit (State) Health Permit (City) Alcohol (State/City) Fire Dept Involvement Alarm or Sign Permit
Office/Consulting Usually yes if commercial Maybe (depends on taxable services) No No Sometimes (life safety) Alarm if installed; signs need permits
Retail Store Yes Yes No (unless sampling/food) Maybe (if selling beer/wine) Yes (occupancy/safety) Sign permits likely
Restaurant/Cafe Yes Yes Yes Maybe (on/off-premise) Yes (hoods, exits) Alarm/sign as applicable
Food Truck N/A (mobile) Yes Yes (mobile unit permit) Maybe Yes (LP/generator) N/A
Salon/Barber Yes Yes (if selling taxable products) No No Sometimes Sign permits likely
Child Care Yes No No No Yes (life safety) Sign as applicable
Auto Dealer Yes Yes No No Yes (occupancy) Sign as applicable
Short-Term Rental/Hotel Yes Yes (taxable receipts) No No Yes (life safety) Sign/alarm; hotel tax reporting

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Costs and Timelines Snapshot (Typical Ranges)

Note: City fees vary by use/size; always confirm in Accela or the City fee schedule. State fees listed are standard.

Item Typical Cost Typical Timeline Source
Texas LLC/Corp filing $300 Same day–few days Texas SOS
Nonprofit corporation $25 Few days Texas SOS
Assumed name (SOS) $25 Same day–few days Texas SOS
Sales Tax Permit $0 Same day–2 weeks Texas Comptroller
EIN $0 Same day IRS
City CO permit Varies 1–3+ weeks City of Fort Worth
Health (restaurant) Varies 2–6+ weeks City Consumer Health
TABC permit Varies by class 2–12+ weeks TABC AIMS
TWC UI setup No fee to register Few days TWC
BOI filing $0 Minutes (online) FinCEN

Your First 30–90 Days Compliance Calendar

Day/Deadline Action Agency Notes/Links
Day 0–7 Verify zoning/use; start CO application City of Fort Worth Development Services, Accela Portal
Day 0–7 Form LLC/Corp or file DBA Texas SOS / Tarrant County Clerk SOSDirect, Tarrant County DBAs
Day 0–7 Get EIN IRS IRS EIN Online
Day 0–14 Apply for Sales Tax Permit Texas Comptroller Sales Tax, Rate Locator
Day 0–30 If food/alcohol: start plan review/TABC City / TABC Consumer Health, TABC AIMS
Day 7–45 Pull building permits; schedule inspections City of Fort Worth Accela Portal
Day 14–60 TWC unemployment tax registration after hiring TWC TWC Unemployment Tax
Day 1–30/90 BOI filing window (new entities) FinCEN BOI E-Filing
By April 15 annually File business personal property rendition TAD Tarrant Appraisal District

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

  • Signing a lease before confirming use and code requirements. Fix: Ask for a zoning/CO pre-check and a “test fit” with a designer before signing.
  • Assuming your use is “minor” so you don’t need permits. Fix: When in doubt, ask Development Services through Accela messages; it’s easier than correcting work later.
  • Forgetting the Sales Tax Permit because “I’m online-only.” Fix: Many online sellers still need it. Check the Comptroller’s list of taxable items and services.
  • Missing BOI reporting. Fix: Put BOI on your formation checklist and calendar updates for ownership changes.
  • Failing food or fire inspections on opening week. Fix: Schedule a pre-opening courtesy walkthrough if available; ask for checklists and correct issues before the official inspection.
  • Not registering with TWC after hiring. Fix: Register promptly and set quarterly reminders.
  • Putting up a sign without a permit. Fix: Submit a sign permit early; landlord-approved artwork doesn’t equal City approval.
  • Assuming “no workers’ comp required” means “no risk.” Fix: Review Texas workers’ compensation rules and your insurance with an agent. Non-subscribers face notice and reporting rules. Source: TDI — Workers’ Compensation (official).

Real-World Examples (Scenarios You Can Learn From)

These are common patterns seen across Fort Worth; use them to plan your sequence.

Scenario 1: Retail Boutique in Near Southside

  • Sequence: Zoning/CO check → LLC (300∗∗)→EIN(∗∗300**) → EIN (**0) → Sales Tax Permit ($0) → Minor interior finish permit (paint, fixtures as required) → Sign permit → Open.
  • Timeline: 3–5 weeks if the space was already retail and you coordinate inspections well.
  • Tips: Use the Sales Tax Rate Locator for your exact address; design signs that meet code to avoid redesign delays.

Scenario 2: Coffee Shop with Seating

  • Sequence: Test-fit with designer → Building permits for bar/hood/plumbing/electrical → Health plan review → TABC (if beer/wine) → Fire final → Health pre-opening → CO → Open.
  • Timeline: 8–12+ weeks, often more if construction is large or long-lead equipment is involved.
  • Tips: Submit complete, coordinated plans; schedule inspections in the order your GC needs them; verify grease interceptor sizing early.

Scenario 3: Mobile Food Trailer

  • Sequence: Buy compliant unit → Commissary agreement → Health permit (mobile) → Fire inspection → Sales Tax Permit ($0) → Set vending locations and property permissions → Open.
  • Timeline: 3–6 weeks depending on the condition of the trailer and inspection scheduling.
  • Tips: Keep LP and fire suppression tags up to date; carry your permits in the unit.

Scenario 4: Home-Based E‑commerce

  • Sequence: Verify home occupation rules (no customer visits) → LLC (300∗∗)orDBA→EIN(∗∗300**) or DBA → EIN (**0) → Sales Tax Permit ($0) → Collect and remit tax → Ship.
  • Timeline: 1–2 weeks to be legally set up, not counting branding/website work.
  • Tips: Use the Comptroller’s rules for taxability of your items; keep boxes and inventory out of public view per zoning rules.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Accessibility Resources (Fort Worth & Texas)

These official or well-established resources support women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, disabled-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, and immigrant-owned businesses. Many offer free advising, certifications, and contract opportunities.

  • City of Fort Worth Office of Business Equity: Helps diverse businesses connect with City contracting and partner programs. Start here: Fort Worth Economic Development — Business Equity (official).
  • NCTRCA (North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency): Regional certification for M/WBE/DBE/SBE; widely recognized by local governments including Fort Worth. Info: NCTRCA Certifications (official).
  • Texas HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) Certification: State program for woman-, minority-, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses to access state contracts. Details: Texas Comptroller — HUB Program (official).
  • SBA Dallas/Fort Worth District Office: SBA loans, counseling, and federal certifications (WOSB/EDWOSB, 8(a), SDVOSB). Start here: SBA Dallas/Fort Worth District (official).
  • Women’s Business Council — Southwest (WBCS): Women-owned certification (WBENC partner) and corporate supplier connections. Info: WBCS (established nonprofit).
  • Texas Veterans Commission — Veteran Entrepreneur Program: Advising, resources, and connections for veteran-owned businesses. Info: TVC VEP (official).
  • NGLCC — National LGBT Chamber of Commerce: LGBTQ+ business enterprise certification and supplier diversity. Info: NGLCC Certification.
  • Tarrant SBDC (Small Business Development Center): Free 1:1 advising on licenses, financials, and growth. Find your center: America’s SBDC — Find Center (official) then choose Tarrant County.
  • Language access: The City provides translation and interpretation for many services. Use the City’s contact/311 options via fortworthtexas.gov and request language support.

Helpful Tables You Can Use

Table: Who to Contact for What

Need Agency Best Starting Link Phone
Certificates of Occupancy, building permits City of Fort Worth Development Services Development Services See City contact/311 options
Health permits (restaurants, mobile food) City of Fort Worth Code Compliance — Consumer Health Start at Fort Worth homepage and search “Consumer Health” See City contact/311 options
Sales tax permit and local rates Texas Comptroller Sales Tax, Rate Locator 800-252-5555
Franchise tax Texas Comptroller Franchise Tax 800-252-1381 (Comptroller franchise tax assistance; verify on site)
Alcohol permits TABC AIMS Portal 512-206-3333
LLC/Corp filings Texas Secretary of State SOSDirect 512-463-5555
Employer unemployment tax Texas Workforce Commission TWC — Unemployment Tax See TWC contact options
Business personal property rendition Tarrant Appraisal District TAD — Business Personal Property See TAD contact page
EIN IRS Apply for EIN 800-829-4933

Sources: linked agencies’ official contact pages.

Table: Required Documents by Step

Step Documents You’ll Commonly Need
CO/Zoning Address, use description, floor/site plans, lease/owner letter, contractor info (if building)
LLC/Corp Business name, registered agent, governing persons, SOSDirect payment
DBA (County) Business/owner names, ID, notarization if required, county fee
EIN Responsible party info (SSN/ITIN), business structure, address
Sales Tax Permit Ownership info, NAICS, location(s), bank info for EFT, responsible party
Health (Food) Equipment layout, finishes, menu/processes, food manager certificate, commissary docs
TABC Entity docs, floor/site plan, local notices/approvals, right-to-occupy
TWC UI FEIN, entity info, first payroll date, NAICS, owner/officer info
BOI Company info, beneficial owners’ ID details (per FinCEN guidance)

Table: Fort Worth Build-Out vs. “As-Is” Opening

Situation What It Means Permits Likely Time Impact
“As‑Is” similar use Prior tenant used the space for same/similar use; no construction CO, possibly minor permits Shorter (1–3+ weeks)
Change of use Prior use differs (office to restaurant) Building permits + CO; health/fire Longer (6–12+ weeks)
Minor remodel Cosmetic upgrades with some fixtures Trade permits, inspections + CO Moderate
Full build-out Significant walls, MEPs, hood/grease Full plan review, many inspections + CO Longest; plan for contingencies

Source: City of Fort Worth permitting practices (see Development Services).

Table: Taxes and Key Deadlines (Texas/Federal/Local)

Tax/Report Who Due Source
Sales Tax Return Permit holders Monthly/Quarterly/Annual based on Comptroller assignment Texas Comptroller — File & Pay
Franchise Tax Taxable entities Each year in May (check exact date/year) Franchise Tax
TWC Unemployment Employers Quarterly TWC — Unemployment Tax
IRS Payroll (941/944) Employers Quarterly/Annual IRS Employment Taxes
BOI Update LLCs/corps 30 days for changes (most cases, after initial filing rules) FinCEN BOI
Business Personal Property Rendition Most businesses in Tarrant Co. By April 15 annually TAD — BPP

Always verify exact due dates and frequencies assigned to your account.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Checklists)

City Certificate of Occupancy: Quick Checklist

  • Confirm zoning for your use (Development Services help).
  • Prepare a basic floor plan; confirm exits, restrooms, accessibility.
  • If building work is needed, submit building permit applications first.
  • Submit CO application in Accela; pay fees when invoiced.
  • Schedule inspections (building, fire, and health if needed).
  • Address correction lists quickly; request final CO.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Message your assigned plans examiner or inspector through Accela for clarifications.
  • Ask about a pre-construction or pre-opening meeting if you need to align City/contractor expectations.

Sales Tax Permit: Quick Checklist

  • Gather ownership details, addresses, NAICS, bank info.
  • Apply online via Comptroller Sales Tax page.
  • Add additional locations later through eSystems if you open more stores.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call 800-252-5555 or use the Comptroller’s contact form for status and documentation requests.

Health Permit (Restaurant): Quick Checklist

  • Hire a designer familiar with restaurant code.
  • Submit health plan review with building plans via Accela.
  • Obtain food manager certificate; enroll staff in food handler courses.
  • Complete pre-opening health inspection; display permit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for the inspection checklist and correction list. Schedule a reinspection after fixes.

TABC: Quick Checklist

  • Map your business model to the right permit class.
  • Create AIMS account; complete application; publish notices if required.
  • Coordinate local approvals (City Secretary/Clerk).
  • Complete background and submit documents; wait for approval.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask TABC exactly which requirement failed; request a path (different class, location changes, or variance if available).

Fort Worth-Specific Notes You Should Know

  • “No general business license” doesn’t mean “no permits.” The City expects you to use the permitting portal for CO, building, sign, and health permits as needed: Accela. Source: City of Fort Worth.
  • Alarm systems and signs are often overlooked. Check City rules before installing. Source: City of Fort Worth.
  • Property tax on business assets: File with Tarrant Appraisal District by April 15 each year: TAD BPP.

Fort Worth Contact and Support (Free or Low-Cost)

  • Fort Worth Development Services: Start for CO, building permits, plan review. Development Services.
  • Fort Worth Accela Permitting Portal: Apply, pay, message staff. Accela Portal.
  • Tarrant SBDC (free advising): Find via SBDC Locator (official).
  • SBA Dallas/Fort Worth District Office: Federal programs and counseling. SBA DFW.

10 Fort Worth/Texas-Specific FAQs

  • Do I need a “Fort Worth business license” to start?
    No single “general business license.” Most businesses need a CO (if in commercial space), a Texas Sales Tax Permit if selling taxable items, and industry permits as applicable. Sources: City Development Services, Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax.
  • What’s the total sales tax in Fort Worth?
    Many addresses collect up to 8.25% (state 6.25% + local up to 2%). Use the Comptroller’s Rate Locator for your exact site. Source: Texas Comptroller.
  • How much is the Texas LLC filing fee?
    300∗∗foranLLCorcorporation;∗∗300** for an LLC or corporation; **25 for a nonprofit corporation. Source: Texas SOS.
  • Is the Sales Tax Permit free?
    Yes. Cost: $0. Apply via the Comptroller. Source: Texas Comptroller.
  • What are common timelines to open a restaurant in Fort Worth?
    Plan for 8–12+ weeks depending on build-out, plan review, inspections, and TABC if needed. Health and fire approvals add time. Sources: City Development Services, City Consumer Health, TABC.
  • Do I need workers’ compensation insurance in Texas?
    Most private employers are not required to carry it, but there are notice and reporting rules if you opt out (“non-subscriber”). Source: TDI — Workers’ Compensation for Employers (official).
  • How do I register for Texas unemployment tax?
    Register with TWC after hiring employees: TWC — Unemployment Tax. The taxable wage base is $9,000. Source: TWC.
  • What is BOI reporting and does it apply to me?
    Most LLCs and corporations must report owners to FinCEN. Pre-2024 entities due by January 1, 2025; formed in 2024: 90 days; formed in 2025+: 30 days. Source: FinCEN BOI.
  • I’m running a home-based business. Do I need City permits?
    Often no CO, but home occupation rules limit traffic, signage, and storage. If you sell taxable items, you still need a Sales Tax Permit. Sources: Fort Worth Code of Ordinances, Texas Comptroller.
  • Are there certifications or help for woman-, minority-, or veteran-owned businesses?
    Yes: NCTRCA certifications, Texas HUB certification, SBA programs, and the City’s Business Equity resources. See: NCTRCA, Texas HUB, SBA DFW, City Business Equity.

What If You Haven’t Found the Right Permit Yet?

  • Search the City’s portal for your exact activity keywords (e.g., “sign,” “alarm,” “temporary event”) in Accela.
  • Check statewide licensing at TDLR (contractor and personal services), TSBPE (plumbing), TABC (alcohol), OCCC (finance/pawn), TxDMV (auto dealers), and Comptroller (tobacco/hotel).
  • Speak with the Fort Worth Development Services front desk through the contact options on the City website if your use is unusual and you need a path forward.

What To Keep on Your Ongoing Compliance Calendar

  • Sales tax filings (monthly/quarterly) — Comptroller assigns frequency.
  • Annual franchise tax filings (if required for your entity).
  • TWC unemployment tax (quarterly, after you hire).
  • Business personal property rendition due by April 15 (Tarrant Appraisal District).
  • BOI updates within 30 days of changes (most cases).
  • Permit renewals (health, alarm, alcohol, etc.) as listed on your permit.

About This Guide

  • Sources: This guide links directly to official City of Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and State of Texas pages (and a few well-established organizations) and avoids guessing on fees or rules that vary by project. Where exact amounts depend on your situation, you’ll see the direct link to the official fee or application page to confirm your figure before you pay.
  • Accuracy date: Information aligns with the latest rules broadly in effect through late 2024 and intended for use in September 2025; laws and fees can change. Always verify using the official links provided.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. City, county, state, and federal rules change. Always confirm requirements, fees, and deadlines with the responsible agency before you apply or pay. When in doubt, contact the agency directly or consult a qualified Texas professional.

Sources (verified and dated where available)