Laredo, TX Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help box (start here)

• Register your business name and structure: set up your LLC/corporation with the Texas Secretary of State; if you’re a sole proprietor or partnership using a name other than your legal name, file an assumed name (DBA) with Webb County. See: Texas Secretary of State — Business Filings — official state site for forming or registering a business; and Webb County (Official Site) — county homepage linking to County Clerk/DBA resources.
• Get your federal EIN (free): apply online. See: IRS — Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) — official IRS page; application is free and immediate in most cases.
• Apply for your Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit (free) if you sell taxable goods/services, lease equipment, or sell prepared food. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax — official state tax page with the permit application and guidance. For rate by address, use Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Rate Locator — official lookup for local sales tax.
• Check Laredo zoning and secure a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before you open a storefront or office. Start with the city’s main portal. See: City of Laredo — Official Website — access Building Development Services, zoning, plan review, and permits.
• Food businesses (restaurants, food trucks, caterers) need a local food establishment permit and health inspections. Find your local health authority via the state directory. See: Texas DSHS — Retail Food Establishment Contacts — official list to identify local health department contacts for permits and inspections.
• Selling alcohol? Apply with TABC through AIMS and get city/county sign-off. See: Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) — Licensing/AIMS — official licensing portal; help line 512-206-3333.
• Hiring employees? Register for Texas unemployment tax and report new hires. See: Texas Workforce Commission — Unemployment Tax — official employer registration and tax guidance; and Texas OAG — New Hire Reporting (Employers) — official employer new-hire reporting info.
• Know your state taxes: franchise tax, mixed beverage tax, hotel occupancy tax, and more. See: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax — official info, including the $2.47 million no-tax-due threshold for 2024–2025 reports; Texas Comptroller — Mixed Beverage Taxes — official rates (6.7% gross receipts tax + 8.25% sales tax on mixed drinks); Texas Comptroller — Hotel Occupancy Tax — state HOT 6%, plus local HOT where applicable.
• Read Laredo’s code rules (home occupations, signs, mobile vendors, etc.). See: City of Laredo — Code of Ordinances (Municode) — official, searchable city code.

Do you need a “general” business license in Laredo?

Action first: Most Texas cities, including Laredo, do not issue a one-size-fits-all “general business license.” Instead, you may need a mix of city approvals (zoning, Certificate of Occupancy, health permits, fire inspections, sign permits) and state licenses (sales tax permit, professional licenses, alcohol permits), depending on what you do.

• Texas does not have a statewide general business license. The Governor’s office publishes a comprehensive permitting guide. See: Texas Governor’s Office — Business Permits Office — official portal with the Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide (PDF) and direct agency contacts.
• In Laredo, the must-do local item for physical locations is confirming zoning and securing a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before opening. Start at the city portal and code library: City of Laredo — Official Website — permits and departments; Laredo Code of Ordinances (Municode) — the law you’ll be held to.

Reality check:

• There is no universal “business license” card to buy once and be done. You’ll stack approvals relevant to your industry and location.
• Timelines vary. Construction or tenant-finish-out? Budget extra time for plan review, inspections, and CO.
• Some permits are free (EIN, sales tax permit). Others have set fees (e.g., Texas LLC filing is $300 per the Secretary of State). See: Texas SOS — Fee Schedule — official filing fees.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which approvals you need, contact the Texas Business Permits Office for guidance via the page above, and consult the city code via Municode. For a walkthrough, book no-cost counseling with a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisor via the SBA locator: SBA — Find SBDC Assistance — official SBA directory of SBDCs that serve Laredo.

Laredo-first business license checklist (in order)

The fastest way to avoid rework is to follow this order. It prevents problems like signing a lease in a zone that doesn’t allow your use.

• Decide your business structure and name. If forming an LLC/corporation, file with the Texas Secretary of State. If operating as a sole proprietor/partnership under a brand name, file a DBA with Webb County Clerk. See: Texas SOS — Business Filings — official filings; Webb County — County Clerk — official county site with Clerk contact and recording info. Filing fees vary; Texas LLC filing fee is $300 (SOS fee schedule above).
• Get a free EIN from the IRS (needed for most bank accounts and hiring). See: IRS — Apply for an EIN Online — official; no fee.
• Apply for your Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit if you sell taxable goods/services. No fee to apply. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax — includes application and FAQs; assistance line 800-252-5555.
• Choose your location and clear zoning with the City of Laredo. Secure a Certificate of Occupancy before opening. Start: City of Laredo — Official Website — navigate to Building/Permits; verify your use is allowed in your zoning district via Laredo Code of Ordinances (Municode) — official zoning and code.
• If you’re a food business (restaurant, bar, food truck, bakery, caterer), apply for health permits/inspections with the local health department. Find contact: Texas DSHS — Retail Food Establishment Contacts — official list.
• If you serve or sell alcohol, apply through TABC’s AIMS system. You’ll need local sign-offs. See: TABC — AIMS Licensing Portal — official; help line 512-206-3333.
• Schedule any required fire inspections for your space (especially assembly uses like restaurants or bars). Start at the city portal: City of Laredo — Official Website — Fire Department/Fire Prevention information.
• Register as a Texas employer if you’ll have staff: unemployment tax with TWC and new hire reporting with the Texas OAG. See: TWC — Unemployment Tax — employer registration; Texas OAG — New Hire Reporting — state new-hire reporting rules.
• Know your state tax obligations beyond sales tax: franchise tax (threshold $2.47 million for 2024–2025 reports; rates vary by industry), mixed beverage taxes for alcohol, hotel occupancy tax for lodging, and more. See: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax, Mixed Beverage, Hotel Occupancy.
• Handle local items like signage permits, alarm permits, and any special use permits (e.g., mobile vending) under Laredo’s code. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Municode — sign code, home occupation rules, vendor rules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you hit a roadblock on the city side (zoning, CO, fire, health), use the city website’s department directory to reach the exact office, and bring a floor plan/site plan to your conversation. If state tax/licensing issues stall, call the listed agency help lines (e.g., Comptroller 800-252-5555, TABC 512-206-3333). For a neutral second opinion, schedule a free SBDC session: SBA — SBDC Locator.

Quick snapshot: core approvals and when you need them

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If timelines stretch, ask for a checklist of deficiencies to fix. For state delays, call the agency hotline listed in the table and cite your application ID. When in doubt, use the Texas Business Permits Office — state assistance to navigate multi-agency permits.

City of Laredo zoning and Certificate of Occupancy (CO)

Start here before you sign a long lease. Zoning determines if your use is allowed at a specific address. A CO verifies your space meets code and identifies the approved use and occupant load.

Key actions:

• Confirm your use is allowed under the address’s zoning district. Look up the zoning rules in the city’s ordinances. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Zoning (Municode) — official legal framework for zoning and permitted uses.
• Plan any tenant improvements with code compliance in mind (exits, restrooms, ADA access, grease interceptor for kitchens, ventilation, electrical load). If you’re changing the use (e.g., retail to restaurant), expect more reviews.
• Apply for a CO and required inspections after any necessary permits/plan reviews. Use the city portal to reach Building Development Services. See: City of Laredo — Official Website — follow the Permits/Building links.
• Restaurants/bars: coordinate the CO with health and fire inspections so you’re not scheduling in the wrong order.
• Home-based businesses: read the home occupation rules for limits on signage, traffic, and certain activities. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Home Occupation rules (Municode) — official code library (search “home occupation”).

Typical timelines and costs:

• CO timing depends on construction status and inspection results. Simple “no-construction” approvals may be quick; buildouts can take weeks.
• CO fees are set by the City; amounts change. Check current fees via the city’s permits page: City of Laredo — Official Website.

Documentation:

• Floor plan/site plan showing exits, restrooms, layout.
• Lease or proof of control of the space.
• Any building permits/approvals previously issued.
• For restaurants: kitchen layout, equipment list; grease interceptor documentation if applicable.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Building Development Services for a “pre-development” meeting to surface issues early. Bring your architect/contractor.
• If you disagree with a zoning interpretation, ask about appeal/variance processes in Municode and timelines. For technical code disputes, request code citations in writing and proposed remedies.

Food businesses in Laredo: health permits and inspections

If you handle or sell food to the public, you’ll need a Food Establishment Permit and pass inspections under the Texas Food Establishment Rules, enforced locally.

Key actions:

• Identify your local health authority and permit process. In Laredo, retail food is regulated locally. Use the state directory to find the exact office and application: Texas DSHS — Retail Food Establishment Contacts — official, up-to-date contacts for local health departments.
• Complete plan review (for new builds or remodels), including equipment specs, menu, and processes.
• Ensure at least one certified food manager on duty (or reachable for certain operations) and required food handler cards for staff. See: DSHS — Food Handler and Food Manager Certification — official certification requirements.
• For food trucks: expect commissary requirements, unit construction standards, and route/operating area rules. Check city code for mobile vending specifics: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Municode.

Numbers and rules to know:

• The Texas Food Establishment Rules align with FDA Food Code. Local fees and inspection schedules are set by the city/county health department. Fee amounts change; check the local health department page you get from the DSHS directory above.
• If you sell prepared foods, you must collect sales tax at the combined state and local rate for your location. State portion is 6.25%; locals vary up to a combined 8.25% cap. Source: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax — official rates and guidance; Rate Locator.

Documents:

• Menu, process flow, and HACCP if required for specialized processes.
• Equipment list/spec sheets and floor plan.
• Proof of certified food manager and staff food handler training.
• Commissary agreement (mobile units).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Request a pre-opening walkthrough with your inspector to catch issues before the final inspection.
• If plan review feedback conflicts with your contractor’s approach, ask for the code citations and alternative compliance paths. Use the DSHS contacts page to escalate if you cannot reach the local office.

Selling or serving alcohol in Laredo: TABC licensing

Texas regulates alcohol at the state level through the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Laredo and Webb County still participate through local certifications or recommendations as part of your application.

Key actions:

• Create an AIMS account and start your application. See: TABC — AIMS Licensing Portal — official system for new and renewal licenses; support 512-206-3333.
• Determine your license/permit type (e.g., MB — Mixed Beverage; BE — Beer Retailer’s On-Premise; BG — Wine and Malt Beverage Retailer’s). See: TABC — License and Permit Types — official descriptions.
• Get local certifications or notices as required (city/county). This typically includes zoning/CO confirmation and local fees (if any). Use the city portal to reach the right office: City of Laredo — Official Website.
• Plan for a public notice period in some cases, background checks, and compliance with distance rules (e.g., near schools/churches) per city code. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Municode.

Taxes and fees:

• TABC state fees vary by license type and may include surcharges and local fees. See: TABC — Fees — official schedule; check for current amounts.
• Mixed beverage taxes (if you sell mixed drinks): Mixed Beverage Gross Receipts Tax is 6.7%, and Mixed Beverage Sales Tax is 8.25% on mixed drinks sold. Source: Texas Comptroller — Mixed Beverage Taxes — official rates and filing guidance.

Timelines:

• From submission to issuance, many TABC applications take around 45–60+ days, depending on completeness, local steps, and background checks. For current averages or to expedite, call TABC at 512-206-3333.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask TABC to review your application for deficiencies before you publish notices or sign long leases. Confirm your location’s distance restrictions via city code first to avoid late-stage denials.

Texas Sales & Use Tax Permit: who needs it and how to apply

If you sell taxable goods or services, lease tangible personal property, or sell prepared food, you must hold a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit.

Key actions:

• Apply online via the Comptroller. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax — official permit application portal; assistance line 800-252-5555.
• Use the local rate locator to charge the correct tax by address. See: Sales Tax Rate Locator — official; enter your exact site or delivery address.
• File returns on schedule (monthly, quarterly, or annually). Due dates vary with your assigned filing frequency. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Filing — official filing portal and deadlines.

Numbers to know:

• Application fee: $0. Source: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax.
• State sales tax rate: 6.25%; locals may add up to 2.00% (combined cap 8.25%). Source: Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax.

Documentation:

• EIN (or SSN if sole proprietor) and business details.
• NAICS business activity code.
• Physical and mailing addresses; ownership info.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your permit is delayed, call 800-252-5555 with your application number. If you’re unsure whether your service is taxable, use the Comptroller’s taxability publications or request a private letter ruling through the Comptroller site.

Texas Franchise Tax (and why it matters even if you owe $0)

If you form a Texas entity (LLC/corporation), you’re subject to franchise tax unless exempt by law.

Key actions:

• Determine if you’re below the “no tax due” threshold. For 2024–2025 reports, the threshold is $2,470,000 in total revenue. See: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax — official rules and thresholds.
• Know the basic rates above the threshold: 0.375% for retailers/wholesalers, 0.75% for others. Source: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax.
• Filing changes: recent law changes simplified filings for businesses below the threshold; verify whether you must file a return and/or information report for your situation/year. See: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax Changes — official updates.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If unsure, call the Comptroller at 800-252-1381 (Franchise Tax Assistance; see the franchise tax page for current contact) and ask which forms you must file this year. If you miss a deadline, file as soon as possible to reduce penalties.

Other state taxes that often hit Laredo businesses

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not sure whether a specialty tax applies, call the Comptroller’s help lines listed on each page or request written guidance.

County-level tasks: Webb County

Even without a “general” business license, you’ll likely interact with county offices.

Key actions:

• File an Assumed Name (DBA) if you’re a sole proprietor/partnership doing business under a name other than your legal name, or if your entity will operate under a variation not filed with the SOS. See: Webb County — Official Website (County Clerk) — find County Clerk forms, fees, and recording instructions.
• Business personal property rendition: If you own business personal property (furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory), you must file a rendition each year with your county appraisal district. State deadline is typically April 15 (extensions possible). See: Texas Comptroller — Business Personal Property Renditions — official rules; and the state form Comptroller Form 50-144 (Rendition). Contact your local appraisal district for where/how to file (look up Webb County Appraisal District from the county or a search).
• If you’re in the county (outside city limits) or handling certain land uses, you may need county permits (e.g., septic). Start with Webb County’s official site and environmental health contacts: Webb County — Official Website.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your DBA or property rendition is rejected, ask for the specific fix (signature, notarization, or property detail). If you miss the property rendition deadline, file as soon as possible; penalties increase over time (see the Comptroller’s rendition page above).

Employer obligations in Texas

Texas requirements are simpler than some states, but there are still non-negotiables.

Key actions:

• Register for Texas unemployment tax before you pay wages. See: Texas Workforce Commission — Unemployment Tax — official employer registration and tax portal.
• Report new hires within 20 days of the hire date. See: Texas OAG — New Hire Reporting — official state guidance and reporting portal access.
• Complete federal I-9 for each hire and keep on file. See: USCIS — Form I‑9 — official form and instructions.
• Post required labor law posters. See: TWC — Required Workplace Posters — official state poster list; U.S. DOL — Workplace Posters — federal poster list.
• Workers’ compensation: Texas does not require most private employers to carry workers’ comp. If you opt out (become a “non-subscriber”), you must notify the state and your employees and file annually. See: Texas Department of Insurance — Workers’ Compensation for Employers — official rules and forms.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t access the TWC unemployment site or you’re unsure about rates/due dates, contact TWC via the page above for employer tax support. If you’re uncertain about workers’ comp pros and cons, call a licensed insurance agent and review the TDI guidance.

Signs, home-based businesses, mobile vendors, and special city rules

Rules live in the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances. These often trip up first-time owners.

Key actions:

• Signs: Most permanent signs need a permit. There are rules for size, lighting, placement, and prohibited signs. Review the sign code via Municode and apply through the city permits portal. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Sign Regulations (Municode) — search “sign.”
• Home-based businesses: Laredo allows many home occupations with limits on noise, traffic, equipment, and visible signage. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Home Occupation (Municode).
• Mobile vendors and food trucks: Confirm allowed locations, required permissions (private property letters, restroom agreements), hours, and proximity to schools. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Mobile Vending (Municode).
• Alarms: If your commercial space has a monitored alarm, the city may require an alarm permit and fees for false alarms. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Alarm Systems (Municode).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If an inspector flags your sign or mobile setup, ask for the specific code section and a path to compliance (e.g., reduced size, different placement, or different hours). If home-occupation limits conflict with your business model, consider a small office/co-working site within your zoning district.

Industry-specific licenses and who issues them

Use this table to find your regulator and where to start. Costs change — check the official page for current fees and forms.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which agency covers your niche, use the Texas Business Permits Office to identify your regulator and the correct application.

Real-world examples (Laredo scenarios)

These examples show how approvals stack up. Use them to plan your budget and timeline.

• Coffee shop with pastries (downtown spot): LLC files with SOS ($300). Applies for EIN ($0) and Texas sales tax permit ($0). Confirms zoning allows restaurant/coffee use. Submits plans for minor tenant improvements (hand sink, counter layout). Schedules health and fire inspections. Applies for CO. Hires staff and registers with TWC for unemployment tax. Purchases required labor posters (or downloads free state/federal posters). If serving beer/wine, starts TABC BG application and posts notice. Plans 6–10 weeks from lease signing to opening, depending on buildout and inspections.
• Mobile taco truck: Owner registers a sole proprietorship with a DBA at the Webb County Clerk (fee set by county; check the Clerk). Gets EIN ($0) and sales tax permit ($0). Secures a commissary and mobile unit health permit via local health department (DSHS directory). Reviews Laredo mobile vending rules in Municode (operating locations/hours). If selling sodas and prepackaged drinks only, no TABC. If adding beer service at private events, consult TABC on temporary permits. Plans 3–8+ weeks for unit inspection, commissary agreement, and scheduling.
• E‑commerce apparel brand (home-based): Forms an LLC ($300), EIN ($0), sales tax permit ($0). No CO if no customer traffic and no employees onsite (confirm home occupation rules). Collects sales tax on in‑state shipments based on origin/destination per Texas rules; uses the rate locator. Files franchise tax as required (often below $2.47 million threshold). Keeps inventory records for business personal property rendition (April 15).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your landlord won’t allow food buildout (venting/grease), pivot to a “coffee + packaged foods” concept while you search for a kitchen-capable site. For food trucks, if commissaries are full, ask your inspector for an approved list or look at neighboring jurisdictions. For e‑commerce, if HOA restricts home occupation, consider a small flex space with proper zoning.

Timelines: what to expect

Delays usually come from buildout and inspections. Filing paperwork early reduces waiting.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask each office for a timeline and their “complete submittal” checklist. Submit clean plans, answer calls quickly, and batch inspections (health + fire) where possible.

Money: typical government costs and taxes you can plan for

Note: Amounts that vary are flagged to check the linked official source for current figures.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If fees are higher than budgeted, phase your opening (e.g., soft open without alcohol) or choose a license type with lower cost (beer/wine vs. mixed beverage) and upgrade later.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Signing a lease before zoning and CO: Then learning your use isn’t allowed or the space needs costly upgrades. Always verify zoning and CO path first.
• Waiting to apply for your Sales Tax Permit: You need it before you start taxable sales, including pre‑orders.
• Ignoring sign permits: Installing a sign without a permit can lead to fines and removal.
• Skipping food manager certification: Inspectors will ask on day one; missing it can delay opening.
• Applying for the wrong TABC license: The wrong category (e.g., off-premise vs. on-premise) causes restarts and delays.
• Missing the April 15 rendition: Business personal property late filings can trigger penalties. See: Texas Comptroller — Renditions.
• Confusing home occupation limits: Too much traffic, visible inventory, or employees onsite can trigger violations. Read Municode rules.
• Not registering for unemployment tax when hiring: Penalties apply for late registration and taxes. See: TWC — Unemployment Tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, contact the agency, admit the issue, and ask for the fastest compliant fix. Many offices can work with you if you correct quickly.

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Texas-focused)

These resources help women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, disabled-owned, and immigrant-owned businesses access contracts, capital, and certifications.

• Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Certification (women-, minority-, service-disabled veteran-owned): Texas Comptroller — HUB Program — official state program for increased access to state contracting; lists eligibility and how to apply.
• SBA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB: SBA — WOSB Program — official; explains certification and how to bid on federal contracts.
• SBA 8(a) Business Development Program (socially/economically disadvantaged): SBA — 8(a) Program — official; 9-year program; includes mentorship and set-asides.
• SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert): SBA — VetCert — official portal for veteran- and service-disabled veteran-owned certification for federal contracting.
• LGBTQ+ supplier certification: NGLCC — LGBTBE Certification — national LGBT Chamber certification used by many corporations for supplier diversity.
• Disability-owned business certification: Disability:IN — Supplier Diversity — DOBE/SDV-DOBE certifications recognized by many corporations.
• Language access: City and state sites often provide Spanish materials or bilingual assistance. Use each linked agency’s “Español” or language toggle if available (e.g., IRS, USCIS, TWC). For local help, ask the City of Laredo department if bilingual support is available when scheduling.
• Free advising, including Spanish-language mentoring: SBA — SBDC Locator — find local counseling; SCORE — Find a Mentor — nationwide volunteer mentors; both offer bilingual services in many regions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t meet a certification’s eligibility, use alternative pathways: corporate supplier diversity portals (accepting self-identification), local chambers (e.g., Hispanic/Black/Asian chambers), and targeted grant/loan programs through SBA and community lenders.

Frequently asked questions (Texas and Laredo)

• Do I need a “general business license” to operate in Laredo?

No. Texas doesn’t have a statewide general license, and Laredo doesn’t issue a universal city license. You’ll combine zoning/CO, health permits (if applicable), and state licenses like the sales tax permit. Source: Texas Governor’s Office — Business Permits Office.

• How much is the Texas LLC filing fee?

$300 as set by the Secretary of State. Source: Texas SOS — Fee Schedule.

• Is the Sales and Use Tax Permit free?

Yes. Application fee is $0. Source: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax.

• What is the Texas franchise tax “no tax due” threshold?

$2,470,000 total revenue for 2024–2025 reports. Source: Texas Comptroller — Franchise Tax.

• What sales tax rate should I charge in Laredo?

The state rate is 6.25%; local rates vary by location up to 8.25% combined. Use the official Sales Tax Rate Locator to find the correct rate for your address. Source: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax.

• How long does a TABC license take?

Commonly 45–60+ days, depending on license type and local steps. Source: TABC — Licensing/AIMS; call 512-206-3333 for current timelines.

• What inspections do I need before opening a restaurant?

Health inspection (food establishment permit), fire inspection, and a Certificate of Occupancy. Start at the city portal and DSHS contacts page. Sources: City of Laredo — Official Website; DSHS — Retail Food Contacts.

• Do I have to carry workers’ comp in Texas?

Most private employers are not required to carry workers’ comp. If you opt out (non-subscriber), you must notify the state and your employees. Source: Texas Department of Insurance — Workers’ Comp for Employers.

• When is the business personal property rendition due?

Typically April 15 each year, with possible extensions. Source: Texas Comptroller — Property Tax Renditions.

• What if my home-based business has customer visits?

Check Laredo’s home occupation rules. Many customer visits may violate home occupation standards, pushing you toward a small commercial space. Source: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Municode.

Step-by-step application details

Below are the most common applications with how to apply, required documents, and links.

1) Register your business name and structure

Action:

• LLC/Corporation: File a Certificate of Formation with the Texas SOS. See: Texas SOS — Corporations Section — official online and mail filing options; fee $300 for LLC.
• DBA (Assumed Name): File with the Webb County Clerk if you’re a sole proprietor/partnership using a brand name or your entity operates under a different style. See: Webb County — County Clerk.

Required documents:

• Formation: Certificate of Formation, registered agent consent, payment.
• DBA: Assumed Name form, ID, notarization as required, fee (set by county).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your preferred name is taken, use the SOS name search or add a unique modifier. If your DBA filing is rejected, call the Clerk’s office via the county website to clarify signature/notary requirements.

2) Federal EIN

Action:

• Apply online. See: IRS — EIN Online — $0.

Required info:

• Responsible party’s SSN/ITIN, entity details, address, business start date.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line 800-829-4933 (official IRS phone) if the online app errors or you need to correct an EIN assignment. Source: IRS — Business and Specialty Tax Line.

3) Texas Sales & Use Tax Permit

Action:

• Apply with the Comptroller; no fee. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax.

Required info:

• EIN/SSN, NAICS code, officers/owners, locations, banking info for e-pay (optional).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 800-252-5555 with your application ID; ask whether additional documentation is needed (e.g., lease copy).

4) Laredo zoning, building permits (if needed), and CO

Action:

• Verify zoning and permitted use; apply for building permits if altering the space; schedule inspections for CO. Start at: City of Laredo — Official Website and Laredo Code of Ordinances (Municode).

Required documents:

• Floor plan, site plan, contractor license info (for permitted trades), prior occupancy details if available.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a pre‑development meeting or plan review consult; bring questions in writing with your proposed layout.

5) Health permits (food businesses)

Action:

• Submit plan review and a food establishment permit application to the local health authority. See: DSHS — Retail Food Contacts.

Required documents:

• Menu/processes, equipment specs, floor plan, water/sewer details, certified food manager certificate, commissary agreement for mobiles.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a pre‑opening inspection checklist and a reinspection timeline if you fail the first time.

6) Alcohol license (if applicable)

Action:

• Apply with TABC in AIMS; complete local steps. See: TABC — AIMS Licensing.

Required documents:

• Entity documents, lease, floor plan/site plan, local certifications, background checks, publication notices (if required).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call TABC 512-206-3333, ask for a pre‑screen of your file to avoid restarts. Confirm local distance rules in Municode before you invest.

7) Employer accounts

Action:

• Register with TWC for unemployment tax and with the Texas OAG for new hire reporting. See: TWC — Unemployment Tax and Texas OAG — New Hire Reporting.

Required documents:

• EIN, entity info, address, ownership, NAICS, first payroll date.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the contact pages linked above; TWC can resolve account setup issues and provide your account number and filing schedule.

Taxes and rates snapshot for Laredo businesses

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not sure whether your product or service is taxable, use the Comptroller’s industry publications or request a private letter ruling. Start at the main tax page and follow the links for “Publications.”

If you’re opening on a budget: sequencing and savings

• Free first: EIN ($0), sales tax permit ($0), and SBDC advising ($0).
• Lock in your name: SOS name availability check and filing ($300 for LLC).
• Lease with a permitting contingency: add a clause that lets you exit if zoning, health, or TABC permits are denied.
• Phase licenses: open as coffee/bakery first; add beer/wine (BG) later; then mixed beverage once stable.
• Reuse equipment: check with your inspector that used equipment meets code (e.g., NSF certification, smooth cleanable surfaces).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider a pop‑up or shared kitchen to prove demand before a full buildout. See if a local restaurant offers subleasing/off-hours commissary access (run this by the health department).

What to do if you work from home or sell online

Home-based and online businesses still have rules.

• Home occupation rules limit traffic, employees on site, equipment visibility, and signs. See: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Home Occupation.
• E‑commerce must collect Texas sales tax on shipments to Texas addresses; check rates using the Rate Locator. See: Texas Comptroller — Sales and Use Tax.
• Inventory and equipment may be taxable as business personal property; file your rendition by April 15. See: Comptroller — Renditions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If HOA or lease rules conflict, consider a small office/flex space in the right zoning district. If tax determination is unclear for online services, call 800-252-5555 for guidance.

“Plan B” directory if something gets stuck

• Can’t figure out your permits? Use the state’s navigator: Texas Governor’s Office — Business Permits Office — they point you to the right agency and contact.
• Need local code answers? Search the law directly: Laredo Code of Ordinances — Municode.
• Want a neutral advisor? Book free one-on-one help: SBA — SBDC Locator.
• Need tax clarifications? Call the Comptroller at 800-252-5555 (sales tax) or use the franchise tax pages for contacts.
• Alcohol licensing delays? Call TABC at 512-206-3333 with your AIMS application number.

Contacts you’ll actually use

About fees and figures in this guide

You asked for hard numbers, not guesses. We’ve included official, verifiable figures where they are published statewide and stable as of August–September 2025 (e.g., Texas LLC fee $300, sales tax 6.25%, mixed beverage taxes 6.7% and 8.25%, hotel occupancy tax 6%, and franchise tax threshold $2.47 million for 2024–2025 reports). For city-specific fees (e.g., CO, sign permits, local health permits) and some variable state license fees (TABC by type), amounts do change and are not always posted identically across sources; when current amounts weren’t confirmed from an official page accessible here, we pointed you directly to the official page to check the latest numbers. Each claim in this guide is linked to an official Texas or City/County site. Always verify fees and deadlines at the links provided before you pay or apply.

About this guide

• Purpose: Give Laredo entrepreneurs a practical, no‑nonsense roadmap with direct links to official sources and up‑to‑date numbers where available.
• Scope: Focused on Laredo city approvals, Texas state permits/taxes, and Webb County tasks most small businesses face.
• Sources: Every fact is tied to an official government source or a well‑established authority, with links and descriptions. All links verified for availability as of September 2025.
• How to use: Start with the Quick Help Box, then follow the Laredo-first checklist. Use the tables to jump straight to the right agency for your industry.

Disclaimer

Regulations, fees, thresholds, and timelines can change. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or compliance advice. Always confirm current rules and amounts with the relevant agency using the official links provided in this guide. If you need legal or tax advice, consult a licensed attorney or CPA.