Henderson, NV Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Henderson, Nevada Business License Guide (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help (do these first)

  • Check what government you’re dealing with (Henderson vs. Las Vegas vs. unincorporated Clark County). Use the City’s boundary/address map, or call Henderson’s help line at 702‑267‑2323. See the City website: City of Henderson — Business Licensing homepage (navigate to Business Licensing) (accessed September 2025).
  • Register (or search) your business name and entity on Nevada’s one‑stop portal. Most first‑time filings go through SilverFlume — Nevada’s Business Portal (official state portal) (accessed September 2025).
  • Pay your Nevada State Business License. By law, it’s 200∗∗formostbusinessesand∗∗200** for most businesses and **500 for for‑profit corporations. Source: NRS 76.100 — State business license fee (accessed September 2025).
  • Register for Nevada taxes if needed (sales/use tax, commerce tax, payroll taxes). Start at the Nevada Department of Taxation — Register a Business (accessed September 2025).
  • File Beneficial Ownership Information with FinCEN (federal). Most LLCs/corporations formed in 2025 must file within 30 days of formation; 2024 formations had 90 days; pre‑2024 companies must file by January 1, 2025. There’s no fee. Source: FinCEN — Beneficial Ownership Information filing (accessed September 2025).
  • Apply for your City of Henderson business license. Start at the City site or via SilverFlume’s local licensing prompts: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025). For help, call 702‑267‑2323 (Henderson Connect).
  • If you handle food, pools, body art, or childcare, you’ll also need a health permit from the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Start here: Southern Nevada Health District — Environmental Health or call 702‑759‑1000 (accessed September 2025).
  • If you build/repair structures, you likely need a Nevada contractor’s license before Henderson will issue your city license. See Nevada State Contractors Board or call 702‑486‑1100 (southern NV office) (accessed September 2025).
  • Selling alcohol, gaming, or other “privileged” activities? Expect background checks, fingerprints, and longer timelines. See the City’s licensing pages: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025).

At‑a‑glance: filings, fees, and who handles what

The table below shows the usual filings most Henderson businesses deal with. Exact fees can vary by entity type and activity. Always verify with the linked agency.

Filing/permit Who issues it When it’s due Typical fee Where to do it / source
Nevada State Business License (SBL) Nevada Secretary of State (via SilverFlume) At formation/registration and annually by your anniversary month 200∗∗(mostbusinesses);∗∗200** (most businesses); **500 (for‑profit corporations) NRS 76.100 — State business license fee (accessed September 2025); SilverFlume — Start/Register
Initial/Annual List (officers/managers) Nevada Secretary of State At formation and annually by anniversary month Amount varies by entity; check official fee schedule Nevada Secretary of State — Fees and filings (accessed September 2025)
BOI filing (federal) FinCEN (U.S. Treasury) Most entities: within 30 or 90 days based on formation date; legacy cos by Jan 1, 2025 No fee FinCEN — BOI filing (accessed September 2025)
Nevada tax registration (sales/use, commerce tax, payroll) Nevada Department of Taxation Before you start sales/employment; ongoing returns Registration: no fee; taxes vary NV Dept. of Taxation — Register/Tax types (accessed September 2025)
City of Henderson business license City of Henderson Before operating in city limits; renew per license terms Varies by category/gross revenue; see City schedule City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025)
Health permits (food, pools, body art, childcare) Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) Before opening; renew annually Fees vary by risk level/activity SNHD — Environmental Health permits (accessed September 2025)
Liquor/gaming/privileged licenses City of Henderson Before operating; renew per code Application and background fees vary City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Privileged) (accessed September 2025)
Nevada contractor’s license (if applicable) Nevada State Contractors Board Before bidding or contracting Fees vary; bond required based on limit NSCB — Licensing (accessed September 2025)

Reality check: Where people get tripped up is assuming the state license is enough. It isn’t. You need the City of Henderson license if you have a location in Henderson—or if you regularly come into Henderson to do work (e.g., contractors, mobile services). See Henderson’s code via Municode — City of Henderson Code of Ordinances (accessed September 2025).

Who needs a Henderson business license (and who doesn’t)

  • If your shop, office, warehouse, or home‑based business is inside Henderson city limits, you need a Henderson business license.
  • If your business is based elsewhere but you regularly perform work in Henderson (e.g., contractors, delivery, mobile service), you typically need a Henderson license.
  • If you’re in unincorporated Clark County (not inside a city), you need a Clark County license instead. See Clark County Business License — Apply (accessed September 2025).
  • If you’re inside the City of Las Vegas or City of North Las Vegas, you need those cities’ licenses. See City of Las Vegas — Business Licenses (accessed September 2025) and City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025).

Use the City of Henderson’s site or mapping tools to confirm your address is within Henderson limits: City of Henderson — GIS/Maps (accessed September 2025). When in doubt, call 702‑267‑2323.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If boundaries are still unclear, ask the City to verify jurisdiction in writing through their licensing/contact form: City of Henderson — Contact/Business Licensing (accessed September 2025).
  • If you’re on a border or in a business park with mixed jurisdictions, also call Clark County Business License at 702‑455‑0174 and the City of Las Vegas at 702‑229‑6281 to cross‑check (accessed September 2025 via each city/county website contact pages).

Step‑by‑step: Get legal and licensed in Henderson (fastest path first)

Step 1: Register your business with Nevada (SilverFlume)

Most businesses start by forming or registering the entity (LLC, corporation, etc.) and securing the Nevada State Business License.

  • File your Articles (LLC/corporation), or register a sole proprietorship/partnership with a state business license through SilverFlume — Nevada’s Business Portal (accessed September 2025).
  • State Business License fees are set by law: 200∗∗formostentities;∗∗200** for most entities; **500 for for‑profit corporations. Source: NRS 76.100 (accessed September 2025).
  • You’ll also file your Initial List of managers/officers and pay the fee that matches your entity type. Exact amounts change; check the current fee schedule on the Secretary of State portal: Nevada Secretary of State — Fees & Forms (via SilverFlume) (accessed September 2025).
  • Annual due dates: Nevada renewals (state business license + annual list) are due by the last day of your entity’s anniversary month. Late fees apply. Verify your due date in your entity record: SilverFlume — Business Search (accessed September 2025).

Required documents (varies by entity):

  • Approved business name, officer/manager info, Nevada registered agent, business address, and ownership details.
  • Payment method for fees (credit/debit).
  • For foreign entities: good standing certificate from home state.

Eligibility:

  • Most lawful businesses qualify. Certain names/activities are restricted (e.g., “bank,” “insurance”) and require additional approvals.

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If your name is rejected or filings bounce, call the Secretary of State help line (Carson City office commonly listed on SOS site) or use SilverFlume’s chat/help resources: SilverFlume — Help/Contact (accessed September 2025).
  • Consider using a Nevada‑based formation service or a local registered agent with document prep support (fees vary; vet providers carefully).

Step 2: Get your EIN (federal tax ID)

  • Apply free online with the IRS: IRS — Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) (accessed September 2025).
  • You’ll need an EIN to open bank accounts, hire workers, or if your entity is an LLC/corporation.
  • Save the confirmation letter (CP 575) as most licensing desks and banks will ask for it.

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If the online wizard fails (common with certain foreign ownership or past EINs), use Form SS‑4 and fax/mail to the IRS per instructions on the IRS page linked above.

Step 3: Register for Nevada taxes (Department of Taxation)

Before you sell taxable goods or services or hire, register with the Nevada Department of Taxation.

  • Register or add tax accounts at the NV Tax — Nevada Tax Center / Register a Business (accessed September 2025).
  • Sales and Use Tax: Henderson is in Clark County. Combined sales tax rates are published by the state and updated as needed. Check the current Henderson rate by address using state resources: NV Dept. of Taxation — Sales & Use Tax rates and publications (accessed September 2025). Do not assume Las Vegas and Henderson have the same rate without checking the latest chart.
  • Commerce Tax: Nevada’s annual Commerce Tax applies if your Nevada gross revenue exceeds $4,000,000 in a fiscal year. Returns are due by August 14 each year for the year ending June 30. Rates vary by industry category. Source: Nevada Department of Taxation — Commerce Tax and NRS Chapter 363C (accessed September 2025).
  • Employer Payroll/Modified Business Tax (MBT): If you have employees, you may owe Nevada’s payroll tax (MBT). Rates and thresholds can change; check the current MBT guidance on the Department’s site: NV Dept. of Taxation — Modified Business Tax (accessed September 2025).
  • File and pay on time. The Department publishes filing calendars and e‑file links.

Common documents:

  • EIN, business entity details, NAICS code, start date, responsible party info.
  • Lease or location info (sometimes requested).

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which taxes apply, call the Department’s help line published on the tax site or visit the Las Vegas District Office (contact details on tax.nv.gov) (accessed September 2025).
  • If sales tax registration is delayed but you must open, ask the Department about temporary permits or practical steps to avoid under‑collection.

Step 4: File your federal Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN

This is a new federal requirement many small businesses don’t know about. Fines for ignoring it can be steep.

  • Who must file: Most corporations, LLCs, and similar entities created by filing with a state. Certain entities are exempt (e.g., large operating companies meeting specific criteria).
  • Deadlines (as of 2025): Entities formed in 2025 and after must file within 30 days of formation; entities formed in 2024 had 90 days; companies existing before January 1, 2024 must file by January 1, 2025. Source: FinCEN — BOI Small Entity Compliance Guide (accessed September 2025).
  • Filing is free at FinCEN’s site: FinCEN BOI E‑Filing (accessed September 2025).
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for your records. Henderson does not collect this, but banks and due diligence checks often care.

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure who counts as a “beneficial owner,” use FinCEN’s guide and FAQs on the same page or consult a Nevada business attorney. Do not guess—misreporting can lead to civil or criminal penalties per FinCEN.

Step 5: Confirm Henderson zoning and location approvals

Zoning comes before the City issues a license. Don’t sign a long lease without checking permitted use.

  • Use City resources or contact Planning/Zoning via the City site to confirm your business type is allowed at your address: City of Henderson — Planning/Zoning (Development Services) (accessed September 2025).
  • Home‑based (residential) businesses have special rules (parking, signs, customer visits, noise). See the City’s home occupation rules via Business Licensing pages: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Home‑based) (accessed September 2025).
  • Some uses require a conditional use permit or building permits (tenant improvements, signs, fire alarm/suppression).

Documents to gather:

  • Lease or property owner authorization.
  • Site plan/floor plan if you’re building out or changing use.
  • Prior certificates of occupancy if you’re taking over a space.

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If the use isn’t permitted, ask Planning about a conditional use permit process, or choose a different site. Do this before you spend money on build‑out.
  • For complex spaces (restaurant, daycare, gym), consider a pre‑application meeting with Planning/Building/Fire. Schedule via the City site above.

Step 6: Apply for the City of Henderson business license

Once state and federal basics are set, apply with the City. You can typically start via SilverFlume, which routes you to local licensing, or go directly through the City.

  • Start here: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025). For support, call 702‑267‑2323 (Henderson Connect).
  • Expect to provide: business entity details, responsible party ID, location/lease info, Nevada state license numbers, EIN, and any required health/contractor/industry permits.
  • Fees: Henderson license fees vary by category (flat fee vs. gross‑revenue‑based) and activity (e.g., contractor, retail, professional services, home‑based). Check the current City fee schedule and classification list on the official page: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Fees & Classifications) (accessed September 2025). Do not guess your classification; the wrong one can trigger back‑billing.
  • Background checks: Required for “privileged” categories (e.g., liquor, gaming). You may need fingerprints and an appointment.

Typical supporting documents:

  • Nevada State Business License and entity filings (from SilverFlume).
  • EIN letter (IRS CP 575).
  • Lease or notarized landlord authorization (if not on lease).
  • Health permit (if applicable), contractor license (if applicable), State board license (e.g., cosmetology, real estate) where relevant.
  • Floor plan, parking plan, fire inspection or alarm/suppression permits (if applicable).

Processing time:

  • Simple, non‑regulated licenses can be fairly quick after all approvals are in (timelines vary by workload). Privileged licenses take longer due to background checks.

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If the online portal stalls or your classification is unclear, use the City’s contact page or call 702‑267‑2323 and request Business Licensing assistance. Ask for a “pre‑screen” of your classification and paperwork.
  • If a required permit (like health or fire) is not ready, ask if the City will accept a conditional approval letter or proof of scheduled inspection.

Step 7: Handle industry‑specific permits (as needed)

The City won’t issue your license until all prerequisite permits are in place. Common examples in Henderson:

  • Food facilities, bakeries, coffee shops, caterers, food trucks, body art, pools/spas: Southern Nevada Health District — Environmental Health or call 702‑759‑1000 (accessed September 2025).
  • Contractors and trades: Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) — license category, exam(s), bond, financial limit, background, and business officer requirements. Phone 702‑486‑1100 (accessed September 2025).
  • Childcare: SNHD for health/sanitation; state childcare licensing rules apply outside the City licensing scope (check Nevada DHHS childcare licensing).
  • Liquor and gaming (privileged): City of Henderson Business Licensing (see City site) for background checks, suitability, and Council approvals when required: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Privileged) (accessed September 2025).
  • Fire code permits (hoods, alarms, suppression, hazardous materials, high‑pile storage): Henderson Fire Prevention via the City site: City of Henderson — Fire Prevention/Permits (accessed September 2025).

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • Book a pre‑submittal with the relevant agency. Most have intake staff who will walk you through checklists and inspection sequences.
  • If you’re short on time, phase your opening: e.g., open retail first while kitchen build‑out continues, if your layout and permits allow. Confirm with the City and SNHD before proceeding.

Step 8: If you’re hiring, set up employer accounts and insurance

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If your UI or workers’ comp account is delayed, keep documented proof of application and call the agency help lines on their sites for interim guidance.
  • If you’re unsure about classification (e.g., independent contractor vs. employee), consult the Labor Commissioner or a Nevada employment attorney. Misclassification can trigger back taxes and penalties.

Step 9: Renewals & staying compliant

  • Nevada State Business License and Annual List renew every year by the last day of your anniversary month. Track these dates in your calendar and on your SilverFlume dashboard: SilverFlume — Business Search/Reminders (accessed September 2025).
  • City of Henderson business license renewals are due per your license terms (often annually, sometimes with gross‑revenue reporting). Watch your renewal notices and the City’s fee schedule: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Renewals) (accessed September 2025).
  • State taxes: Sales/use returns due per filing frequency; Commerce Tax due by August 14 if you exceed $4,000,000 Nevada gross revenue. See NV Dept. of Taxation — Filings & Due Dates (accessed September 2025).
  • Keep BOI current: Most companies must update FinCEN BOI within 30 days of certain changes (e.g., ownership or address). Source: FinCEN — BOI updates/FAQs (accessed September 2025).

Plan B if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss a deadline, act fast. Many agencies offer short grace periods before heavier penalties. Contact the agency via the links above and ask about late fees and how to cure.
  • For city license renewal issues (e.g., portal errors), call 702‑267‑2323 for Business Licensing assistance.

Henderson vs. other local jurisdictions (don’t apply in the wrong place)

Jurisdiction Typical “who needs it” Main licensing site Phone (general)
City of Henderson Businesses with a location in Henderson or regularly working in Henderson City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025) 702‑267‑2323 (Henderson Connect)
Unincorporated Clark County Businesses in county areas outside cities Clark County — Business License (accessed September 2025) 702‑455‑0174
City of Las Vegas Businesses inside City of Las Vegas limits City of Las Vegas — Business Licenses (accessed September 2025) 702‑229‑6281
City of North Las Vegas Businesses inside City of North Las Vegas limits City of North Las Vegas — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025) See website contact page

Document checklist (print this)

Stage Documents you’ll likely need
State formation/registration Business name choice; registered agent; Articles (LLC/corp); organizer/officer IDs; payment method
State Business License & Annual/Initial List Entity info; officer/manager info; NAICS code; payment method
Federal EIN SSN/ITIN of responsible party; entity details; mailing address
NV Dept. of Taxation EIN; entity details; owner/responsible party info; start date; activity description; location
Henderson license (general) State Business License; Initial/Annual List; EIN letter; lease/authorization; government ID; zoning clearance; classification info
Henderson license (privileged) All above + background packet, fingerprints, suitability hearings (if applicable)
Health permits (SNHD) Floor plan; equipment list; menu/processes; plan review application; fees; scheduling for inspections
Fire/building permits Construction drawings; equipment cut sheets; alarm/suppression plans; contractor info
Hiring Workers’ comp policy; DETR UI employer account; required posters; payroll setup

Timelines you can actually plan around

Note: These are realistic planning ranges. Your timeline depends on how complete your documents are and how quickly agencies can inspect/approve. Always verify with the agency.

Task Typical planning range What speeds it up What slows it down
Entity formation + State Business License (SilverFlume) Same day to a few days Pick a distinct name; file online during business hours Name conflicts; foreign entity qualifications
EIN (IRS) Same day online Apply during IRS online hours Manual SS‑4 filings; mismatched info
NV Tax registration Same day to several days Have EIN and entity records ready Complex activities; missing details
Zoning clearance (City) A few days to a few weeks Pick a by‑right location/use Conditional use permits; appeals
SNHD plan review (for food) Weeks to months (plan+build+inspect) Use an experienced designer; submit complete plans Revisions; equipment changes; missed inspections
Henderson general license After prerequisites, days to a couple weeks Complete packet; correct classification Waiting on health/fire/contractor approvals
Privileged licenses (liquor/gaming) Several weeks to a few months Clean background; complete disclosures Background issues; Council schedule constraints

Industry quick‑match: what permits you likely need

Business type Common required approvals
Retail shop (non‑food) Nevada SBL; NV Tax sales/use; Henderson license; sign permit; possibly fire occupancy
Restaurant/cafe/food truck Nevada SBL; NV Tax; SNHD plan review + food permit; Henderson license; fire hood/suppression; grease interceptor (if applicable)
Contractor (general/trade) Nevada contractor’s license; Nevada SBL; NV Tax (if taxable sales); Henderson license (even if based elsewhere); city construction permits
Salon/barber/spa Nevada SBL; NV Tax; Henderson license; State Cosmetology Board license; SNHD body art (if applicable); fire occupancy
Daycare/childcare Nevada SBL; Henderson license; SNHD (sanitation); state childcare licensing; fire safety
Fitness studio/gym Nevada SBL; NV Tax; Henderson license; building/fire occupancy; music licensing (private orgs)
Office/professional services Nevada SBL; NV Tax (if applicable); Henderson license; state professional board license for regulated professions
Alcohol sales (bar/liquor store/restaurant with alcohol) Nevada SBL; NV Tax; SNHD (if food); Henderson privileged liquor license with background checks; fire/building approvals

Real‑world examples (Henderson scenarios)

  • A mobile mechanic based in North Las Vegas regularly serves customers in Henderson. Even though the shop is not in Henderson, the mechanic must apply for a Henderson business license because the work occurs inside Henderson. They’ll also keep North Las Vegas (home city) licensing. Cross‑jurisdiction work like this is common for trades and mobile services. See the City’s licensing page for application details: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025).
  • A home‑based Etsy candle maker in Henderson sells online only and ships from home. They still need a Henderson home‑based business license, but they’ll likely need no SNHD permit (not a food). They should confirm parking/delivery limits and signs with the City’s home occupation rules and check whether their product triggers any fire code storage rules (waxes/fragrances). City site: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Home‑based) (accessed September 2025).
  • A new coffee shop tenant takes over a former clothing store. The use changes from retail to food. They need SNHD plan review, plumbing upgrades (possibly a grease interceptor), mechanical hood/suppression, building permits, a fire inspection, NV Tax sales/use registration, and then the City license. Plan review and construction will drive the schedule. Start at SNHD: SNHD — Food Establishments and coordinate with City permits via the City site (accessed September 2025).

Common mistakes to avoid (seriously worth a read)

  • Signing a lease before checking zoning and parking. Fix: email Planning with the address and use type and get a written response.
  • Assuming the Nevada State Business License is the only license you need. Fix: apply for the Henderson license and any SNHD/Fire/NSCB permits.
  • Picking the wrong city classification. Fix: ask the City to confirm your license category; mismatches can lead to back‑billing or reclassification mid‑year.
  • Starting construction without permits. Fix: submit plans and get approvals first. Unpermitted work can require demo and double fees.
  • Forgetting BOI filing with FinCEN. Fix: calendar the 30‑day deadline for 2025 formations and file at FinCEN BOI (accessed September 2025).
  • Missing tax registrations. Fix: register with NV Dept. of Taxation before you make taxable sales (accessed September 2025).
  • Not carrying workers’ comp. Fix: secure a policy before employees’ first day; see DIR Workers’ Compensation (accessed September 2025).
  • Using a non‑Nevada name that conflicts with an existing entity. Fix: search on SilverFlume Business Search (accessed September 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hit a wall, ask the City for a short consult or pre‑screen. Call 702‑267‑2323 via Henderson Connect and note names/dates of anyone who advises you.

Costs overview (statewide vs. city)

Note: City fees in Henderson depend on your category and/or gross receipts. The City publishes a fee schedule—don’t rely on estimates.

Cost item Current figure Source
Nevada State Business License — most entities $200 NRS 76.100 (accessed September 2025)
Nevada State Business License — for‑profit corporations $500 NRS 76.100 (accessed September 2025)
Initial/Annual List fees Varies by entity; check schedule SilverFlume — Fees/Filings (accessed September 2025)
Commerce Tax filing threshold $4,000,000 Nevada gross revenue NV Dept. of Taxation — Commerce Tax (accessed September 2025); NRS 363C
Sales and Use Tax rate (Henderson/Clark) Check current rate (published by state) NV Dept. of Taxation — Sales & Use Tax rates (accessed September 2025)
Henderson business license fee Category/receipt‑based; see schedule City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Fees) (accessed September 2025)
SNHD food permit Risk‑based; see SNHD fee schedule SNHD — Environmental Health permits (accessed September 2025)

Home‑based businesses in Henderson

Start with zoning and the home occupation rules. Many low‑impact businesses can be home‑based with limits on signs, employees, customer visits, and deliveries.

  • Apply for a City home‑based license via the City’s licensing portal: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (Home‑based) (accessed September 2025).
  • If your activity draws traffic (e.g., salons at home), expect stricter limits or denial if it disrupts residential character.
  • Food from home: Nevada allows certain cottage foods statewide under strict rules; SNHD provides guidance and permits for other food production. See SNHD — Cottage Foods / Food Operations (accessed September 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your home‑based setup isn’t allowed, look for low‑cost shared commercial spaces, commissary kitchens (for food), or executive suites within Henderson that are zoned for your use.

Accessibility, inclusivity, and certification resources (Nevada‑specific)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which certification makes sense, book a free counseling session with the SBA Nevada District or the APEX Accelerator using the links above.

FAQs (Nevada/Henderson specific)

  • Do I need a Henderson license if I only do one job per year in the city?
    • Usually yes if you’re performing business activity in Henderson. Call 702‑267‑2323 to confirm how the City treats one‑off engagements and whether a temporary license fits your situation. Source: City of Henderson — Business Licensing (accessed September 2025).
  • How much is the Nevada State Business License?
    • 200∗∗formostentities;∗∗200** for most entities; **500 for for‑profit corporations, per state law. Source: NRS 76.100 (accessed September 2025).
  • What is the sales tax rate in Henderson?
  • I’m a contractor licensed in Nevada. Do I need a Henderson license too?
  • I sell online only from my home in Henderson. Do I still need a city license?
  • When is the Commerce Tax due?
  • How long does a Henderson license take?
    • Simple, non‑regulated licenses can issue relatively quickly after all approvals are complete. Privileged licenses (liquor/gaming) can take longer due to background checks and meeting schedules. Check current timelines with Business Licensing: 702‑267‑2323 (accessed September 2025).
  • Do I need a Clark County license if I already have a Henderson license?
    • Only if you also operate in unincorporated Clark County. Each jurisdiction licenses its own area. See Clark County Business License (accessed September 2025).
  • What happens if I miss my Nevada Annual List or State Business License renewal?
    • Late fees apply and your entity can go into default. Renew via SilverFlume as soon as possible (accessed September 2025).
  • Does Nevada have a personal income tax on business owners?
    • No state personal income tax. But you may owe sales/use tax, Commerce Tax (if over $4,000,000 NV gross revenue), payroll taxes (MBT), and local license fees. See NV Dept. of Taxation (accessed September 2025).

“What to do if this doesn’t work” — escalation paths by topic

  • Jurisdiction confusion
    • Ask Henderson Connect at 702‑267‑2323 to confirm jurisdiction and route you to Business Licensing. If you’re near borders, also call Clark County (702‑455‑0174) and Las Vegas (702‑229‑6281) (accessed September 2025).
  • Zoning/space issues
    • Request a pre‑application meeting through the City site. Consider changing suites or sites to avoid conditional use delays.
  • Health permit delays
    • Schedule a plan review intake with SNHD at 702‑759‑1000. Ask about phased openings (e.g., beverages only) if your build‑out is incomplete and compliant.
  • Privileged license (liquor/gaming) delays
    • Contact Business Licensing through the City site to confirm what’s outstanding and target hearing dates. Ensure background packets are complete.
  • State filings stuck
  • Tax registration or rate questions
    • Contact the NV Department of Taxation via the contact numbers on tax.nv.gov and ask for the latest rate chart for your address (accessed September 2025).

Practical tips to save time and money

  • Always ask the City to confirm your license classification before you pay.
  • If you’re opening a food business, start SNHD plan review early—build‑outs take longer than you think.
  • Add all annual due dates (State Business License, Annual List, City license, taxes, BOI changes) to a shared calendar with reminders 30 days and 7 days out.
  • Keep PDFs of every approval (entity filings, BOI receipt, NV tax registration, SNHD permits, inspections). City staff often ask for copies.
  • If you serve multiple jurisdictions (Henderson, County, Las Vegas), keep a one‑page matrix of what license and tax accounts you have in each place.

Helpful contacts (bookmark these)

Topic Agency Link Phone
One‑stop formation & licensing SilverFlume — Nevada’s Business Portal nvsilverflume.gov See site
State business license law (fees) Nevada Legislature — NRS 76.100 NRS 76.100 —
Nevada taxes (sales/use, commerce, MBT) Nevada Department of Taxation tax.nv.gov See site
Henderson business license City of Henderson — Business Licensing cityofhenderson.com 702‑267‑2323
Health permits Southern Nevada Health District snhd.org 702‑759‑1000
Contractors licensing Nevada State Contractors Board nscb.nv.gov 702‑486‑1100
Workers’ comp NV Division of Industrial Relations dir.nv.gov/WCS/WCS/ See site
Employer UI DETR — Employer Services detr.nv.gov See site
BOI filing FinCEN (U.S. Treasury) fincen.gov/boi —

Reality checks (the parts that aren’t fun)

  • Henderson, like other cities, protects neighborhoods. If your home‑based plan causes traffic, parking, or noise problems, you’ll be told to scale back or move to a commercial space.
  • Food operations take time. Plan review, equipment changes, and inspections can stretch timelines. Budget for delays.
  • Privileged licenses are a higher bar. Expect deeper background checks and hearing calendars that can’t be rushed.
  • The City can reclassify your license if your activity changes. Keep your description accurate and update the City if you pivot.
  • Multi‑jurisdiction work means multiple licenses. Contractors are the most common example—plan on it.

About This Guide

  • What this is: A practical, plain‑language hub for getting licensed to do business in Henderson, Nevada, with direct links to official sources.
  • What this is not: Legal or tax advice. For complex setups (multi‑owner, regulated industries, franchises), talk with a Nevada attorney, CPA, and an experienced permit expediter.
  • Sources and dates: Every fact tied to a number or rule links to an official source (state, city, county, or federal) and was checked for availability as of September 2025. Links: City of Henderson (accessed September 2025), SilverFlume (accessed September 2025), Nevada Dept. of Taxation (accessed September 2025), FinCEN BOI (accessed September 2025), SNHD (accessed September 2025), NSCB (accessed September 2025), NRS 76.100 (accessed September 2025), and other city/county portals linked above.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Program rules, fees, tax rates, and agency processes change. Always verify the latest requirements, fees, and deadlines with the City of Henderson, the Nevada Secretary of State, the Nevada Department of Taxation, SNHD, and any other relevant agency before you apply or make payments.