Irving, TX Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (Fastest Path to Opening)

What “business license” means in Irving, TX

The State of Texas does not issue a general statewide “business license.” Instead, you assemble the right mix of:

  • City-level approvals (location/zoning, Certificate of Occupancy, fire/health inspections, sign permits)
  • State tax registrations (Texas sales tax permit, franchise tax account)
  • County filings (DBA/assumed name, if applicable)
  • Employer registrations (Unemployment Insurance, new hire reporting, optional workers’ comp)
  • Industry-specific licenses (food, alcohol, child care, trades, auto, healthcare, etc.)

Texas confirms there is no single universal state license; licensing depends on industry and local rules. See the Governor’s office overview: Texas Economic Development – Start a Business in Texas (official), and the state’s compilation of licensing requirements: Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide (official).

Reality check: In Irving, you can open quickly if your space already complies with code and your business needs only basic state registrations. If your plan involves build-out, hood systems, grease traps, or alcohol, expect multiple inspections and longer timelines.

At-a-Glance: Which approvals do you need?

Table purpose: Quickly map common Irving business scenarios to likely city, state, and federal actions (always verify for your exact address and use).

Business scenario City of Irving actions Texas state actions Federal actions
Retail shop in a storefront Certificate of Occupancy; fire inspection; sign permit; zoning confirmation Texas Sales Tax Permit; Texas Franchise Tax account EIN; federal payroll if hiring
Restaurant/cafe CO; fire; health/food permit; grease trap review; sign permit; zoning Sales Tax Permit; TABC (if serving alcohol) EIN; FDA/USDA if manufacturing certain foods (rare for restaurants)
Home-based online seller Home occupation rules; no signage; traffic limits Sales Tax Permit (if selling taxable items) EIN (optional), seller-platform 1099-K reporting
Salon/barbershop CO; health/sanitation inspection; sign permit TDLR facility and operator licenses; Sales Tax Permit (for products) EIN/payroll if hiring
Mobile food truck Mobile food unit permit; approved commissary; fire inspection; route rules Sales Tax Permit EIN/payroll if hiring
Child care center CO; fire/life safety; zoning Texas HHS Child Care Regulation license; Sales Tax Permit (if selling taxable) EIN; background checks
Office/professional services CO; sign permit; zoning Franchise Tax account; Sales Tax Permit if any taxable services EIN

Sources: City rules via City of Irving – official site. Texas licensing via Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide (official) and agency pages referenced throughout.

Step-by-step: Get legal to operate in Irving

1) Confirm location and zoning for your exact use (before you sign)

  • Why it matters: Leasing a space that’s not zoned for your use can add months or kill the project.
  • How to do it: Contact the City of Irving Planning & Zoning with your proposed address and business description. Use: City of Irving – Department Directory. Ask for permitted uses, parking requirements, signage limits, and whether a Special Use Permit is needed.
  • Realistic timeline: Initial zoning confirmation can be same-day to a few days depending on workload. Special Use Permits can take several weeks due to public notice and meetings.
  • Documents to have ready: Site address, suite number, business description (e.g., “sit-down restaurant, 40 seats, beer/wine”), expected hours, and parking counts if known.
  • Things that add time:
  • Outdoor seating/patios, live entertainment, drive-thru, or late-night hours often need extra review.
  • Older buildings may need upgrades to meet current codes (ADA access, restrooms, ramps, parking, egress).
  • Plan B if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask Planning & Zoning to suggest nearby zones that allow your use.
  • Consider a different space in the right zoning, or pivot to a use that is permitted by right.

2) Secure a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for your space

  • Why it matters: A CO is the city’s formal approval to occupy a building for a specific use. Operating without a CO can lead to fines and closure.
  • How to do it: Apply through City of Irving Building Inspections: City of Irving – Permits/Inspections (official). You’ll need a completed application, the business name, use type, floor plan, and possibly contractor info.
  • Inspections you may need: Building, Fire, Health (if food), possibly backflow testing, hood/suppression systems, and grease trap.
  • Fees: CO and inspection fees vary by project. See the city’s fee schedule or confirm with Building Inspections: City of Irving – Permits/Inspections.
  • Timeline: If no construction is needed, some COs can be processed in 1–3 weeks after inspections. If you require build-out, add plan review and construction time (often several weeks to months).
  • Pro tip: Order a code compliance walk-through before committing to the space. You’ll learn about required upgrades early.
  • Common snags:
  • Unpermitted past work (e.g., prior tenant built walls/ramps without permits).
  • Missing hood suppression for cooking with grease, or undersized grease interceptors for restaurants.
  • Fire extinguisher, exit signage, and egress issues.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask the city whether a temporary CO is possible while you finish minor items.
  • If a landlord promised a “turnkey” space, negotiate for them to complete code fixes before your CO final.

3) Get your Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit (free)

4) Form your legal entity (or register your DBA)

5) Register for Texas Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax and report new hires

  • Who needs this: Any employer paying wages to employees in Texas must set up a UI tax account with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
  • Key numbers: Texas UI taxable wage base is $9,000 per employee per year; the tax rate varies by employer and year. Source: Texas Workforce Commission – Unemployment Tax (official).
  • Apply: Register online via TWC’s Unemployment Tax Services: TWC – Unemployment Tax (official).
  • New hire reporting: Report each new hire and rehire within 20 days of their start date via the Attorney General’s employer portal: Texas New Hire Reporting (official). This is required under federal and state law.
  • Workers’ compensation: Optional for private employers in Texas. If you do NOT carry coverage, you must notify employees and file non-subscriber notices with TDI-DWC. See: Texas Department of Insurance – Workers’ Compensation for Employers (official).
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • If you can’t access TWC online services, use the contact options listed on the TWC Unemployment Tax page and reference your FEIN and entity name.

6) Industry-specific permits (Irving/Texas)

Start with the most common local needs. Always check with the City of Irving and the state agency over your industry.

  • Food service (restaurant, café, food truck, catering)
  • City level: health permit/inspection; CO; possible grease trap review; fire review for cooking equipment. Start with City of Irving – Environmental Health (official).
  • State level: Sales Tax Permit (food is often taxable if prepared hot; check taxability), possible DSHS manufacturing licenses if packaging foods for wholesale: Texas DSHS – Food Manufacturers (official).
  • Alcohol service
  • State level: Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) licensing via AIMS: TABC – Licensing (official). Texas mixed beverage taxes apply: a 6.7% Mixed Beverage Gross Receipts Tax and an 8.25% Mixed Beverage Sales Tax. Source: Texas Comptroller – Mixed Beverage Taxes (official).
  • City level: Zoning for alcohol, distance rules (schools/churches), and CO. Coordinate with Irving Planning & Zoning and Fire.
  • Salons/barber shops, massage, electricians/HVAC, and other trades
  • State level: Many are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR): TDLR – Licenses (official). Cosmetology/barber facilities and practitioners must be licensed; electrical and HVAC contractors require TDLR licensing. Fees vary by license type (see TDLR fee schedules for each license).
  • Auto dealers and motor carriers
  • State level: Dealer licensing with TxDMV: TxDMV – Motor Vehicle Dealers (official). Motor carriers: TxDMV – Motor Carriers (official).
  • Child care facilities
  • State level: Texas Health & Human Services Child Care Regulation (CCR): Texas HHS – CCR (official). Expect background checks, ratios, facility standards.
  • Professional services (CPAs, engineers, legal, medical)
  • State licensing boards govern these professions (Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, State Bar of Texas, Texas Medical Board). Check your board’s site for current license requirements and fees.
  • Plan B if this doesn’t work:
  • If you’re unsure which agency regulates your business, use the state’s directory: Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide (official) and call the listed agency. For city questions, start at City of Irving – Department Directory.

7) Signs, construction, and fire/life safety

  • Sign permits: Most exterior signs in Irving need permits. Check size, lighting, and location rules with Planning & Zoning/Building Inspections via the city directory: City of Irving – Department Directory.
  • Construction/build-out permits: Any structural, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work requires permits and inspections. Use licensed contractors registered with the city.
  • Fire/life safety: Cooking operations require listed hood and fire suppression systems; certain occupancies need alarm/monitoring and extinguishers. Coordinate early with the Fire Marshal via the city directory.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Request a pre-submittal meeting with Building Inspections and Fire to review plans before you spend on construction drawings.

8) Home-based businesses in Irving

  • Check home occupation rules: Some activities are limited (customer traffic, signage, noise, parking). Use City of Irving – Department Directory and ask for “Planning & Zoning – Home Occupation rules.”
  • Sales tax still applies if you sell taxable goods online or from home: Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax (official).
  • Keep deliveries and customer visits within allowed limits and be considerate of neighbors.
  • Plan B if this doesn’t work:
  • Consider a small office or shared commercial kitchen/coworking space in a commercial zone to avoid neighborhood restrictions.

Texas fees and tax rates most Irving businesses encounter

All dollar amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers are bolded for quick scanning.

Item Amount / Rate Source
Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit (application fee) $0 Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax Permit (official)
Texas state sales tax rate (state portion) 6.25% Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax (official)
Typical total sales tax in Irving (state+local) 8.25% (verify by address) Texas Comptroller – Local Rate Search (official)
Franchise tax no-tax-due threshold (reports 2024+) $2,470,000 total revenue Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax (official)
Franchise tax rates (most entities) 0.375% retail/wholesale; 0.75% others; EZ computation available Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax Rates (official)
Franchise tax report due date May 15 each year (extensions available) Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax Due Dates (official)
Texas UI taxable wage base $9,000 per employee Texas Workforce Commission – Unemployment Tax (official)
New hire reporting deadline 20 days from start date Texas OAG – New Hire Reporting (official)
Texas SOS filing fee – LLC (Certificate of Formation) $300 Texas SOS – Fees (official)
Texas SOS filing fee – For-profit corporation $300 Texas SOS – Fees (official)
IRS EIN $0 IRS – EIN Application (official)
Mixed Beverage Gross Receipts Tax 6.7% Texas Comptroller – Mixed Beverage (official)
Mixed Beverage Sales Tax 8.25% Texas Comptroller – Mixed Beverage (official)

Notes:

Filing deadlines you’ll likely face (Irving + Texas)

| Filing | Normal due date | Who files | Where to file / pay |
|—|—|—|
| Sales tax returns | Generally the 20th of the month following the reporting period | Businesses with Sales Tax Permits | Texas Comptroller – eSystems (official) |
| Texas franchise tax report | May 15 (extensions available) | Most entities with nexus in TX | Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax (official) |
| Texas new hire report | Within 20 days of hire | Any Texas employer | Texas OAG – Employer New Hire Reporting (official) |
| Texas UI quarterly wage reports | Quarterly, by due dates set by TWC | Any Texas employer | TWC – Unemployment Tax Services (official) |
| City inspections for CO | Scheduled as needed | Businesses occupying space in Irving | City of Irving – Permits/Inspections (official) |

Always verify deadlines directly with the agency in case of holidays or system outages.

“Open for business” timelines (reality-based)

Table below shows typical ranges so you can plan cash flow. Your mileage will vary.

Step Typical time if straightforward What makes it longer
Zoning confirmation 1–5 business days Special Use Permits; public hearings
Certificate of Occupancy (no build-out) 1–3 weeks Missed inspections; code fixes
Build-out permits + construction Several weeks to months Plan corrections; supply chain delays
Sales Tax Permit 1–3 weeks Incomplete application; verification
LLC/Corp filing (SOSDirect) Same day to a few days Name issues; registered agent problems
TWC UI account setup 1–2 weeks FEIN mismatches; prior account issues
Health permit (restaurant) Inspection scheduling + corrections Hood/grease trap delays; equipment approvals
TABC licensing Several weeks to months Protest periods; city distance rules

Sources: Process steps per City of Irving and Texas agencies listed above.

Who to contact (official sources)

Topic Agency Best contact path
Zoning, CO, building, fire, health City of Irving City of Irving – Department Directory (ask for Planning & Zoning, Building Inspections, Fire Marshal, Environmental Health)
Sales tax permit, sales/franchise tax Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Comptroller – Taxes (official) • Taxpayer Assistance: 800-252-5555
LLC/corporation filings, registered agents Texas Secretary of State SOS – Corporations (official) • SOSDirect • Info line: 512-463-5555
Unemployment tax (UI) Texas Workforce Commission TWC – Unemployment Tax (official)
New hire reporting Texas Office of the Attorney General Texas New Hire Portal (official)
Workers’ compensation (optional) Texas Department of Insurance, DWC TDI – Workers’ Comp for Employers (official)
Alcohol permits Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission TABC – Licensing (official)
Trades (salon, electrical, HVAC, etc.) Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation TDLR – Licenses (official)
Food manufacturing/wholesale Texas DSHS DSHS – Food Manufacturers (official)
Auto dealers Texas Department of Motor Vehicles TxDMV – Dealers (official)

Sales tax in Irving: what you’ll collect and file

Texas franchise tax: do you owe, and when?

  • Threshold: If your total annual revenue is at or below $2,470,000, you’re generally under the “no tax due” threshold for report years 2024 and after. Source: Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax (official).
  • Rates: 0.375% (retail/wholesale) and 0.75% (all others). EZ computation may be available at a reduced rate for entities under certain revenue levels. Source: Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax Rates (official).
  • Due date: May 15 each year (extensions are available with payment). Source: Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax Filing (official).
  • Recent changes: The Comptroller announced changes effective for 2024 reports, including elimination of certain “no tax due” filings. Always check the current-year instructions.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • If you’re unsure whether you need to file, contact the Comptroller or consult a Texas CPA experienced with franchise tax.

Real-world examples (Irving context)

  • Example: Small retail boutique in Las Colinas
  • Actions: Verify zoning for retail at chosen suite; apply for CO; apply for $0 Sales Tax Permit; form an LLC with $300 state filing; set up sales tax filings; obtain sign permit.
  • Timeline: If the space needs no build-out, many shops can open in about 3–5 weeks after inspections. Delays happen when signage or a minor electrical fix needs re-inspection.
  • Example: Coffee shop with light food
  • Actions: CO; health permit; equipment verification; possibly grease interceptor review; fire inspection for any cooking appliances; if selling branded merchandise, maintain Sales Tax Permit; if serving beer/wine, TABC licensing and city review.
  • Timeline: Expect several weeks for health/fire coordination. If grease interceptor upgrades are required, timeline can stretch to a few months due to plumbing permits and inspections.

Home-based seller vs. storefront: different paths

Requirement Home-based online seller in Irving Brick-and-mortar store in Irving
Zoning Must meet home occupation rules Must be in a commercial zone allowing your use
Certificate of Occupancy Usually not needed for purely online home-based work Required for commercial space
Sales Tax Permit Required if selling taxable goods Required if selling taxable goods
Health/Fire Generally not applicable unless handling food or hazardous materials Inspections likely (fire; health if food)
Signage Residential sign rules are strict Sign permit required for most exterior signs

Common mistakes to avoid (based on local patterns)

  • Signing a long lease before confirming zoning and required upgrades. This often leads to unexpected construction costs and delays.
  • Assuming the prior tenant’s CO carries over. COs are specific to use and occupant.
  • Delaying the Sales Tax Permit application. You need it before you make taxable sales.
  • Ignoring grease interceptor requirements. Restaurants are frequently delayed by undersized or inaccessible interceptors.
  • Underestimating hood/suppression needs. Cooking with grease triggers costly code requirements; countertop devices don’t dodge fire code.
  • Skipping county DBA filings. Banks often require the DBA certificate for accounts when not using your legal name.
  • Missing payroll-related registrations. TWC UI and new hire reporting are mandatory if you pay wages.
  • Not coordinating sign permits. Installing a sign without a permit can mean removal and fines.
  • Using unlicensed trades. Electrical/HVAC/plumbing work by unlicensed contractors will fail inspection and delay opening.
  • Treating “no tax due” as “no filings.” Franchise tax rules change; verify your entity’s current-year obligations with the Comptroller.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Book a 30–60 minute pre-application call with City of Irving permitting staff to walk through your plan, and enlist a local architect/engineer if construction is involved.

Document checklist (bring these to speed approvals)

Document Why it matters Who needs it Tips
Lease or proof of site control City won’t process many permits without it All brick-and-mortar Include any landlord obligations (e.g., provide grease interceptor)
Floor plan and site plan For CO, fire, and health reviews Stores, restaurants, salons Dimensioned layout speeds approvals
Equipment list and cut sheets Health and fire reviews Restaurants/food service Include hood/suppression specs
LLC/Corp formation approval Bank accounts, leases, permits Entities SOSDirect filing approval is acceptable
EIN letter (SS-4) State tax registrations and payroll Employers You can print immediately after online EIN
Sales Tax Permit number Start collecting/remitting tax Sellers of taxable items Apply before your first taxable sale
Insurance certificates Landlords and some permits require Most tenants Workers’ comp is optional in TX; ask if required by landlord
DBA certificate (if applicable) Bank accounts, contracting Sole props/partnerships File with the correct county (Dallas or Tarrant)

Costs you can estimate on day one

Even with local fees varying, you can lock in many state costs and tax parameters. Use this table to budget baseline expenses.

Cost item Amount Notes/Source
LLC formation (state fee) $300 Texas SOS – Fee Schedule (official)
Sales Tax Permit $0 Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax Permit (official)
EIN $0 IRS – EIN (official)
Franchise tax threshold $2,470,000 (revenue) Texas Comptroller – Franchise (official)
UI taxable wage base $9,000 TWC – Unemployment Tax (official)
Mixed beverage gross receipts tax 6.7% Comptroller – Mixed Beverage (official)
Mixed beverage sales tax 8.25% Comptroller – Mixed Beverage (official)
City CO/health/sign fees Varies by use Confirm with City of Irving – Permits/Inspections

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Irving/Texas)

Irving-specific realities for food and alcohol businesses

  • Food operations: Plan for equipment approvals, health inspections, and potential grease interceptor upgrades. If your menu includes frying or griddle cooking, expect a Type I hood and fire suppression.
  • Alcohol: TABC licensing can add weeks. Distance requirements from schools and churches may restrict some sites. The Comptroller’s mixed beverage taxes (6.7% and 8.25%) are in addition to sales tax compliance.
  • Deliveries/parking: Some Irving retail centers have limited parking. Your occupancy load and seating plan must fit the parking ratio required by zoning.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • If health or fire requirements are too costly at one site, ask your broker/landlord to identify a shell space built for restaurant use (existing interceptor, hood, and gas capacity) to reduce costs and time.

How to apply: step-by-step short lists

Below are quick application checklists. Use the linked official pages for forms and current fees.

  • Certificate of Occupancy (CO) – City of Irving
  • Confirm zoning and allowed use.
  • Gather: leased address, suite, business description, floor plan.
  • Apply via City of Irving Building Inspections: City of Irving – Permits/Inspections (official).
  • Schedule inspections (building, fire, health).
  • Correct any deficiencies; obtain CO to open.
  • Sales Tax Permit – Texas Comptroller
  • Gather EIN/SSN, business details, NAICS, start date.
  • Apply online: Texas Sales Tax Permit (official).
  • Receive permit number; set filing reminders for the 20th due dates.
  • LLC/Corp formation – Texas SOS
  • Choose name (check availability).
  • Draft and file Certificate of Formation; pay $300 filing fee.
  • File via SOSDirect (official).
  • Obtain stamped approval and set up registered agent service.
  • TWC UI and New Hire – Employers
  • Register for UI tax: TWC – Unemployment Tax (official).
  • Report new hires within 20 days: Texas New Hire Reporting (official).

Frequently asked questions (Texas/Irving)

  • Does Irving require a general city business license?
  • Texas doesn’t have a statewide general license, and many Texas cities—including Irving—focus on zoning/CO, not a general license. You will almost always need a Certificate of Occupancy to operate in a commercial space. Verify with: City of Irving – Department Directory.
  • What is the total sales tax rate in Irving?
  • Most addresses are 8.25% (6.25% state + 2% local). Always verify your exact location with the Comptroller’s lookup: Texas Comptroller – Local Rate Search.
  • How much does a Texas Sales Tax Permit cost?
  • $0. Source: Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax Permit.
  • When are sales tax returns due in Texas?
  • Generally by the 20th of the month following the period (monthly/quarterly/annual as assigned). Source: Comptroller – Sales Tax Filing.
  • What is the Texas franchise tax threshold for 2025 filings?
  • For reports 2024 and forward, the no-tax-due threshold is $2,470,000 in total revenue. Source: Texas Comptroller – Franchise Tax.
  • What does a Certificate of Occupancy do?
  • It authorizes you to occupy the space for your specific business use. It’s required before opening. Apply via: City of Irving – Permits/Inspections.
  • Do home-based businesses in Irving need a CO?
  • Usually not, but they must meet home occupation rules. Confirm with Planning & Zoning via the city directory: City of Irving – Department Directory.
  • How do I get approved to sell alcohol?
  • Obtain TABC licensing via AIMS and ensure your site meets city zoning/distance rules. Start here: TABC – Licensing and coordinate with the City of Irving.
  • What if I’m under the franchise tax threshold—do I still file?
  • Texas modified filing for entities under the threshold; check current-year rules with the Comptroller, especially for May 15 due dates: Franchise Tax – Filing Requirements.
  • Is workers’ compensation required in Texas?
  • Private employers are not required to carry it, but non-subscribers must notify employees and file with TDI-DWC. Source: TDI – Workers’ Comp for Employers.

“What to do if this doesn’t work” – quick Plan B menu

Extra tips for smoother approvals

  • Ask for a pre-application meeting. A 30-minute discussion with City of Irving permitting and fire can save weeks.
  • Bring your floor plan on day one. Even a simple, dimensioned plan helps staff give precise feedback.
  • Schedule inspections early. Inspectors’ calendars fill up—don’t wait until the last day before opening.
  • Use licensed contractors. The city maintains registration for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors; ask your contractor for their city registration details.
  • Keep a binder (or digital folder) with all permits, approvals, and inspection sign-offs. Inspectors often ask to see prior approvals.
  • Set compliance reminders. Put May 15 and the 20th sales tax due dates on your calendar with 5–7 day reminders.

About taxes on specific items/services in Texas

Sales tax applies to most tangible goods and certain services; some are exempt. The Comptroller publishes taxability guidance:

If you hire employees in Irving: payroll compliance snapshot

What to do if you sell or expand to another Texas city

  • Sales tax: Your permit covers all Texas sales, but local rates vary by address. Check each location: Comptroller – Local Rate Search.
  • City permits: Each city has its own CO/permit requirements—always check the next city’s planning/permitting site.
  • Alcohol: TABC licensing amendments are needed when you change locations or add permits.

About This Guide

  • Purpose: Provide a practical, Irving-specific licensing and permitting roadmap using official sources only, with real numbers where available.
  • Scope: City of Irving approvals and the most common Texas registrations that Irving businesses need (sales tax, franchise tax, UI, industry licenses).
  • Sources verification: All figures, deadlines, and rules are linked to official or well-established sources and reflect the most reliable information available as of August 2025. Where city fee amounts change often, we link to the official city portal for current schedules.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Program rules, fees, deadlines, tax rates, and agency processes can change at any time. Always verify details with the relevant agency before acting:

If something in this guide conflicts with an agency’s instructions, follow the agency’s official guidance.