Las Vegas, NV Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Las Vegas, NV Business License Guide (2025 Edition)

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help (save these and start here)

Reality check: licensing timelines vary. General local licenses can take days to weeks; liquor/gaming or other background-check licenses often take months. Budget time and money accordingly. Always verify fee schedules from the official pages linked above; they change.

What you actually need in Las Vegas (start here)

Use this as your checklist. You may need more than one license or permit depending on your address and what you do.

License/Account Who requires it Typical cost (official sources) Where to get it Source
Nevada State Business License State (SOS) 200∗∗(mostentitytypes);∗∗200** (most entity types); **500 (for‑profit corporations) annually SilverFlume (SOS portal) Nevada SOS — Business License
Nevada entity filing (LLC/Corp/etc.) State (SOS) LLC Articles: 75∗∗;InitialListforLLC:∗∗75**; Initial List for LLC: **150; plus State Business License SilverFlume Nevada SOS — Fees
Nevada Tax Registration (sales/use, MBT payroll, Commerce Tax) State (Taxation) Registration: no fee; tax deposit may be required for sales/use; tax due based on activity Nevada Tax — Online Registration Nevada Department of Taxation
Local business license (City of Las Vegas or Clark County) City or County Varies by category (see official schedules) City of Las Vegas Business License or Clark County Business License City/County licensing pages
Health permit (food, beverage, body art) Southern Nevada Health District Varies by permit type (see fee schedules) SNHD — Environmental Health SNHD
Contractors License (construction) Nevada State Contractors Board Application & license fees; bond required (amount varies) NSCB NSCB
Sign permits, fire inspections, building/tenant improvement permits City or County and Fire Fees vary City/County building and fire departments City/County
Fictitious Firm Name (DBA) Clark County Clerk Filing fee (see official schedule) Clark County Clerk — Fictitious Firm Name Clark County Clerk

Notes and sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which licenses apply, start a profile on SilverFlume and use its guided checklist. For local licensing, email or call the City/County licensing offices through the official contact pages linked above to confirm your exact requirements before you spend money on permits you may not need.

Step 1 — Confirm your jurisdiction (City vs County) before you apply locally

This is the number one mistake in Southern Nevada. Your storefront might have a “Las Vegas” mailing address, but still be in unincorporated Clark County. Licensing is jurisdiction-based.

Reality check:

  • If you pick the wrong jurisdiction, your application will be rejected and you may lose time. Zoning rules also differ by jurisdiction.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact the licensing office via the official web contacts above and ask them to confirm jurisdiction for your exact address or APN (Assessor’s Parcel Number). If your space is not built‑out yet, confirm intended use with the Planning/Zoning desk first.

Step 2 — Set up your Nevada entity and State Business License (SOS)

Most businesses file with the Nevada Secretary of State (SOS) and obtain a State Business License.

  • Choose your entity type (LLC, corporation, etc.). Forming an LLC is popular due to liability separation. File online: SilverFlume — Start a Business
  • Standard fees (SOS; as posted by statute and SOS schedules):
    • LLC Articles of Organization: $75
    • Initial List of Managers/Members (LLC): $150
    • Nevada State Business License: 200∗∗(mostentities)or∗∗200** (most entities) or **500 (for‑profit corporations)
  • Corporations have an article filing fee based on authorized shares; minimum is typically $75, increasing with share value. Confirm current fee tiers: Nevada SOS — Fees and Forms
  • Exemptions from State Business License exist (e.g., certain nonprofits). Review exemptions in NRS 76.020 and on the SOS page: Nevada SOS — State Business License
  • Processing times: Online filings are commonly same‑day to a few business days; paper filings take longer. Expedited service is available for extra fees. See the SOS site for current turnaround times.
  • SOS help: Carson City main line: 775‑684‑5708 (Secretary of State, Commercial Recordings). Las Vegas office main line (general SOS): 702‑486‑2880. Confirm current numbers on the SOS “Contact” page: Nevada SOS — Contact

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If online formation keeps failing, use SOS paper forms (download from the SOS site) or visit an SOS office. If you need legal structure advice, consult a Nevada business attorney or CPA; SOS cannot give legal advice.

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

If you sell tangible goods, hire employees, or exceed certain revenue thresholds, you’ll need state tax accounts.

  • Sales and Use Tax (Seller’s Permit): Register if you sell or lease tangible personal property or certain services. Clark County’s combined rate is commonly 8.375% (verify current rate). Register online: Nevada Tax — OLT Registration
  • Modified Business Tax (MBT — payroll): Register if you have Nevada employees. MBT is calculated on taxable wages each quarter; thresholds and rates depend on business category. See current thresholds/rates: Nevada Department of Taxation — MBT (official)
  • Commerce Tax: Applies if your Nevada gross revenue exceeds $4,000,000 in the fiscal year (July 1–June 30). Rates vary by industry classification. Details: Nevada Department of Taxation — Commerce Tax (official)
  • Security deposit: The Department may require a sales tax security deposit, often up to two months of average tax liability. See policy and appeals on the Taxation site: Nevada Tax — Sales/Use Tax Security
  • Filing frequency: Determined by projected/actual volume (monthly/quarterly/annual). You’ll be assigned after registration. File and pay online: Nevada Tax — Online Services
  • Help line: 866‑962‑3707 (Nevada Department of Taxation Call Center)

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If registration flags an identity or address mismatch, call 866‑962‑3707. If you need a payment plan or deposit waiver, ask the Department about options and required documentation.

Step 4 — Apply for your local business license (City of Las Vegas or Clark County)

Do this after confirming jurisdiction and starting your state filings.

  • City of Las Vegas (inside city limits): Apply online or in person. Certain businesses (liquor, gaming, adult, massage, some transportation) are “privileged” and require background checks and suitability investigations, which take longer. See steps and category list: City of Las Vegas — Business License
  • Clark County (unincorporated): Process is similar, with different categories and fee schedules. Out‑of‑jurisdiction businesses working inside the County often need a County license too (e.g., mobile vendors, contractors). See: Clark County — Business License
  • Zoning and use check: Confirm your proposed use is allowed at your address before you sign a lease. Contact Planning/Zoning through the City/County websites above. Conditional Use Permits or Special Use Permits may be required for some uses.
  • Fire and Building: Tenant improvements often need building permits and fire inspections. Coordinate early with Building & Safety and Fire Prevention to avoid delays.
  • Fees and timelines: Fees vary by category and gross revenue; timelines for general licenses can be days to weeks; privileged categories can take months due to background investigations. Always check the current fee schedule and published processing times on the City/County sites.

Helpful links:

Reality check:

  • Plan for inspections and corrections; they add time. Your landlord’s “as is” space rarely meets your operational needs without permits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a local license is denied due to zoning, talk to Planning about alternative zones, a different category, or a conditional/special use. If timing is critical, consider a temporary or special event permit if applicable (City/County dependent).

Step 5 — Health permits for food and body services (SNHD)

Food trucks, restaurants, bars, bakeries, caterers, shared kitchens, and many body services (like body art) require Southern Nevada Health District permits.

  • Plan review: New or remodeled food establishments usually need plan review approval before construction or equipment install.
  • Pre‑opening inspection: After approval and build‑out, schedule pre‑opening inspections.
  • Fees: Vary by facility type, risk category, and plan review scope. See current fee schedules on SNHD’s site.
  • Responsible person: Food establishments need a person‑in‑charge with food safety knowledge; SNHD details training requirements.
  • Contact and resources: SNHD — Environmental Health (official). Main line: 702‑759‑1000

Source:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If plan review is delayed, request a status update via your assigned reviewer. If fees are a challenge, stage your project to reduce resubmittals and reinspection costs.

Step 6 — Employer setup (payroll, unemployment insurance, labor posting)

If you hire employees, do these items right after tax registration.

  • Unemployment Insurance (UI): Register with Nevada DETR for employer UI accounts. Rates vary (new employer rates are assigned by DETR and may change annually). Register and get current rates: Nevada DETR — Employer Services (official)
  • Workers’ Compensation: Required insurance for employees. Work with a Nevada‑licensed carrier or your broker. Information: Nevada Division of Industrial Relations (official)
  • Labor law postings and minimum wage: Post required notices and pay at least the Nevada minimum of $12.00/hour statewide (effective July 1, 2024). See posting requirements and wage rules: Nevada Labor Commissioner
  • Federal EIN: Free at the IRS: IRS — EIN

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss a UI filing, contact DETR immediately through the employer portal to set up a payment plan and avoid escalating penalties.

Taxes and permits quick-reference (Nevada)

Tax/Permit Who must register/pay Thresholds Rates or amounts Filing frequency Official source
Sales/Use Tax Sellers/lessors of tangible goods and certain services N/A Clark County combined commonly 8.375% (verify current chart) Assigned (monthly/quarterly/annual) NV Tax — Sales/Use
Modified Business Tax (MBT) Employers with Nevada payroll Thresholds vary by category (see site) Rate depends on category; thresholds apply Quarterly NV Tax — MBT
Commerce Tax Businesses with Nevada gross revenue > $4,000,000 fiscal year $4,000,000 Rates vary by NAICS sector Annually (FY ends June 30) NV Tax — Commerce Tax
State Business License Most businesses N/A 200∗∗(most);∗∗200** (most); **500 (for‑profit corporations) annually Annual Nevada SOS
DETR Unemployment Insurance Employers with Nevada employees Wage base and rates set annually Rate assigned (new employer rate varies); CEP assessment may apply Quarterly DETR

Notes:

  • Always verify current rates on the official pages above. Nevada’s Legislature and local entities can change rates and deadlines.

Local licensing by jurisdiction (where to go)

Jurisdiction When you need it How to apply Address check Source
City of Las Vegas Your business location is inside city limits Online or in person; category-specific docs Check parcel record (Assessor) and confirm with City Las Vegas — Business License
Clark County (unincorporated) Location is in unincorporated areas of the County Online or in person; includes in/out-of-jurisdiction categories Use Assessor record to confirm “Clark County” Clark County — Business License
City of Henderson Location is within Henderson Online portal and in-person help Confirm address with Henderson GIS/Planning Henderson — Business Licensing
City of North Las Vegas Location is within NLV Online and appointment options Confirm address with NLV Planning North Las Vegas — Business Licensing

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re on a border street or a master‑planned area, call the relevant licensing office through the contact pages above and confirm in writing which jurisdiction controls your address.

Industry-specific permits (common in Las Vegas)

Industry Extra permits Key steps Source
Restaurants, bars, food trucks SNHD health permits; possibly grease interceptor permits; alcohol (privileged) Plan review with SNHD; building/fire permits; City/County licensing; if alcohol, background/suitability SNHD — Food Establishments; City/County licensing pages
Retail stores Sales/use tax; sign permits; possibly alarm permits Tax registration; local business license; signage permits; occupancy check NV Tax; City/County
Personal services (salon, spa) Cosmetology facility license; SNHD (for body art) NV State Board licensure for professionals/facilities; City/County license Nevada State Board of Cosmetology
Contractors Nevada State Contractors Board license; City/County business license NSCB application, exam(s), bond; City/County license for work in each jurisdiction NSCB
Liquor, gaming, adult Privileged local license; background/suitability Expect long timelines; police cards/backgrounds; hearings City/County licensing pages
Cannabis State cannabis license + local authorization Highly regulated; limited licensing windows; intensive compliance Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board
Transportation (taxis, limos, TNCs) State transportation authority permits Apply with NVTA; local license may also be needed Nevada Transportation Authority

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a specialized board denies or delays your license, request the deficiency list in writing and schedule a consult with the regulator’s help desk (most agencies publish a contact form or phone line on their sites).

Typical Las Vegas licensing timeline (realistic ranges)

Task Typical timeline Notes
Form Nevada LLC and get State Business License (online) Same day to 2–3 business days Paper filings take longer; expedite service available (extra fee). Source: Nevada SOS
Nevada tax registration (online) Same day to a few days Sales tax security deposit may extend setup. Source: NV Tax
City/County general business license About 1–4 weeks Dependent on zoning review, inspections, and completeness.
Privileged local license (liquor/gaming/adult) Several weeks to months Background and hearings add significant time.
SNHD food facility plan review + pre‑opening Several weeks (plan review + build‑out + inspection) Duration depends on construction and corrections. Source: SNHD
Tenant improvement permits (building/fire) 2–8+ weeks Complex projects take longer, especially with revisions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask your reviewer for the current queue time, and schedule a pre‑submittal meeting to reduce correction cycles. Pay expedite fees only when it truly moves your application in the queue (confirm in writing).

Real‑world examples (what this looks like)

  • A home baker within City of Las Vegas limits:
    • Confirms address is within City via parcel record.
    • Forms an LLC on SilverFlume and pays 75∗∗Articles,∗∗75** Articles, **150 Initial List, $200 State Business License.
    • Checks City’s Home Occupation rules, applies for local business license, and confirms zoning allows the home‑based use (food producers often need a commercial kitchen; Nevada’s cottage food rules are limited — check SNHD for what’s allowed without a permit).
    • If selling at farmers’ markets, registers for sales tax and collects at 8.375% (verify current rate).
    • Links SNHD guidance to ensure no prohibited foods are made at home.
    • Sources: SilverFlume, City of Las Vegas — Business License, NV Tax, SNHD
  • A small retail shop in unincorporated Clark County:
  • A restaurant in City of Las Vegas:
    • Pre‑submittal with SNHD for plan review.
    • Applies for City local license; coordinates building permits and fire inspections. If serving alcohol, starts the privileged license process early due to background checks.
    • Sources: SNHD, City of Las Vegas — Business License

Required documents checklist (have these ready)

Document Why it’s needed Who issues it Notes
Articles (LLC/Corp) Proof of entity Nevada SOS File via SilverFlume
State Business License Required for most businesses Nevada SOS Annual renewal: 200∗∗(most),∗∗200** (most), **500 (for‑profit corporations)
EIN letter (SS‑4) Federal tax ID IRS Free online
Sales/Use Tax Permit Seller’s permit NV Department of Taxation Online registration
Local Business License Operate within jurisdiction City of Las Vegas or Clark County Apply after zoning check
Health Permits Food/body services SNHD Plan review may be required
Building/Fire Permits Build‑out and safety City/County For tenant improvements and signage
Proof of location Lease/deed Landlord/Owner May need notarized permission for home‑based business
ID and background forms Privileged categories City/County For liquor/gaming/adult
Workers’ comp proof Employees Insurance carrier Required in Nevada

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re missing a document, ask your reviewer for an intake checklist so you don’t lose your place in the queue; many offices allow “accepted pending” status if all critical items are present.

Costs you can reliably budget upfront

  • Nevada State Business License: 200∗∗(most),∗∗200** (most), **500 (for‑profit corporations). Source: Nevada SOS
  • LLC Articles: 75∗∗;LLCInitialList:∗∗75**; LLC Initial List: **150. Source: Nevada SOS
  • EIN: $0. Source: IRS
  • Local business license: varies by activity and jurisdiction. You must use the City/County fee schedules (linked above) for exact amounts.
  • SNHD permits: vary by facility type and plan review scope; see SNHD fee schedules.
  • Building/Fire permits: vary by project. Ask Building & Safety for a fee estimate based on your square footage and work type.
  • Sales tax security deposit (if required): depends on projected tax liability (up to two months of average tax amount); ask the Department of Taxation caseworker.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If cash is tight, time your filings so annual fees align with opening date. Many fees renew annually; paying too early cuts into your first year of operations.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Applying in the wrong jurisdiction because of a “Las Vegas” mailing address.
  • Signing a lease before confirming zoning, parking, and build‑out requirements.
  • Forgetting the Nevada State Business License renewal (annual, due with your Initial/Annual List on SOS).
  • Missing sales tax security deposit notices and then getting surprised by a hold.
  • Underestimating SNHD plan review and pre‑opening inspection timelines for food businesses.
  • Treating a privileged license (liquor, gaming) like a general license; background checks and hearings add months.
  • Not registering with DETR for unemployment insurance when hiring your first employee.
  • Skipping workers’ comp (it’s mandatory in Nevada) and risking large penalties.
  • Using the wrong sales tax rate for location or delivery; verify the rate from NV Tax.
  • Not budgeting for sign permits, fire extinguishers, hood systems, grease interceptors, or ADA compliance in build‑outs.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask the issuing office for a “pre‑submittal” or “intake” appointment. Many problems are solved before you apply by showing plans and confirming category/fees upfront.

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Las Vegas and Nevada)

  • Women‑owned businesses (WOSB/EDWOSB certification): SBA’s certification program (free), helpful for federal contracting. SBA — WOSB Program
  • Minority‑owned businesses: MBDA business centers can help with contracts, capital, and growth. Find the nearest center (Las Vegas region) via the directory: U.S. Dept. of Commerce — MBDA Business Centers
  • Veteran‑owned businesses: SBA VetCert (formerly VA CVE). Free certification for VOSB/SDVOSB. SBA — Veteran Certification (VetCert)
  • Disability‑owned businesses: National certification via Disability:IN (DOBE). Disability:IN — Supplier Diversity
  • LGBTQ+‑owned businesses: Certification via NGLCC (LGBTBE). NGLCC — Get Certified
  • Immigrant‑owned and language access: Many Nevada agencies provide Spanish and other language support. Check “Language Access” or “En Español” links on NV Tax, SNHD, and city sites. For legal help, contact the State Bar of Nevada’s Lawyer Referral: State Bar of Nevada — Lawyer Referral
  • Government contracting (all diverse suppliers): Nevada APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) helps you get registered and bid‑ready for government contracts. Nevada GOED — APEX Accelerator (navigate to Programs > APEX Accelerator)
  • Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) for transportation projects: Certify through NDOT. Nevada DOT — DBE Program (navigate to Doing Business > Civil Rights/DBE)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which certification fits, schedule a no‑cost consult with the APEX Accelerator (GOED) and cross‑check requirements with SBA and NDOT staff listed on their contact pages.

Local realities (costs, compliance, and enforcement)

  • Sales tax audits are real in Nevada. Keep point‑of‑sale records and exemption certificates for resale.
  • MBT payroll tax penalties add up if you ignore quarterly filings; file zero returns on time if you have no payroll.
  • Health inspections are unannounced after you open; train staff and maintain logs.
  • Privileged license hearings are public and require solid compliance histories; fix issues before your hearing.
  • ADA compliance is enforceable; factor accessibility into build‑out and seating plans.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you receive a notice or citation, respond by the stated deadline (always in bold in the letter). If unclear, call the issuing office promptly and ask for a “compliance plan” outline.

FAQs (Nevada and Las Vegas — state‑specific)

  • Do I need both a Nevada State Business License and a local business license?
  • What is the sales tax rate in Las Vegas?
  • What if I only sell online from home?
    • You still need the State Business License (unless exempt) and sales/use tax registration if you sell taxable goods into Nevada. Local home‑occupation rules may still apply. Sources: SOS, NV Tax, City/County pages.
  • How much does the Nevada LLC cost to set up?
    • At minimum: Articles 75∗∗,InitialList∗∗75**, Initial List **150, State Business License 200∗∗(mostentities).Totalcommonly∗∗200** (most entities). Total commonly **425 at formation for an LLC (not including local or specialty permits). Source: Nevada SOS
  • When is the Commerce Tax due?
    • It’s based on Nevada gross revenue in the state fiscal year (July 1–June 30) and applies if you exceed $4,000,000. Filing and payment are due after the fiscal year ends. Check current due dates on NV Tax — Commerce Tax.
  • Do I need a Clark County license if my store is in the City of Las Vegas?
    • Not for a fixed location, but if you perform work in unincorporated Clark County (e.g., delivery, contracting), an additional County license may be required. Check your activity category on Clark County Business License.
  • How long does a liquor license take?
  • What’s the Nevada minimum wage?
  • Do I need a DBA (Fictitious Firm Name)?
    • If you operate under a name different from your legal entity name, you may need to file a Fictitious Firm Name with the Clark County Clerk and also register the name as a Nevada entity or use it as a “doing business as.” See: Clark County Clerk — Fictitious Firm Name.
  • Are there City or State grants for small businesses?
    • Programs change. Check the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) and City/County economic development pages for current incentives or façade grants. GOED — Programs. Verify eligibility and dates.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t find your category in the fee schedule, contact licensing staff through the City/County contact forms and ask them to identify your NAICS and local category. Keep the email for your records.

Tables you can use while planning

A. Step-by-step action list (most important first)

Priority Action Where Notes
1 Confirm jurisdiction Parcel/Assessor record Avoid wrong local application
2 Form entity + State Business License SilverFlume Pay 75∗∗+∗∗75** + **150 + 200∗∗(or∗∗200** (or **500 for corp)
3 Register for taxes (sales/use, MBT, Commerce) NV Tax Sales tax rate commonly 8.375% in Clark County
4 Apply for local business license City or County General vs privileged categories
5 Secure building/fire permits City or County For tenant improvements/signage
6 Health permits (if food/body services) SNHD Plan review often needed
7 Employer setup (UI, WC) DETR; DIR Post required labor notices
8 Open bank account and accounting Bank; CPA Keep clean books from day one

B. Who regulates what?

Topic Regulator Link
Entity filings + State Business License Nevada Secretary of State Nevada SOS
Sales/Use, MBT, Commerce Tax NV Department of Taxation NV Tax
Local business licensing (City limits) City of Las Vegas LV Business License
Local business licensing (unincorporated) Clark County CC Business License
Food and environmental health SNHD SNHD
Contractors NV State Contractors Board NSCB
Labor standards & minimum wage NV Labor Commissioner Labor NV

C. Documents you’ll likely upload with local license applications

Category Common uploads
Ownership & identity Government ID, entity documents (Articles, Operating Agreement), EIN letter
Location Lease/deed, floor plan, parking plan, property owner permission letter
Operations Menu/product list, equipment list, hours of operation
Compliance Health permits (if applicable), fire inspection reports, insurance (liquor liability for alcohol)

D. Renewal cycles (don’t miss these)

Item Renewal cycle Where
State Business License Annual (due with Initial/Annual List) Nevada SOS
Local business license Annual or semiannual (varies by category) City or County
Sales/Use tax returns Monthly/Quarterly/Annual (assigned) NV Tax
MBT (payroll) Quarterly NV Tax
DETR UI Quarterly DETR

E. Contact directories (official)

Agency Contact hub
Nevada Secretary of State SOS — Contact
Nevada Department of Taxation NV Tax — Contact and Call Center 866‑962‑3707
City of Las Vegas Business Licensing Las Vegas — Contact Business License
Clark County Business License Clark County — Contact Business License
Southern Nevada Health District SNHD — Contact and Main 702‑759‑1000
Nevada State Contractors Board NSCB — Contact

How to apply (short, scannable steps)

  • Form your LLC or corporation (or register your sole proprietorship) at SilverFlume. Pay your State Business License (200∗∗or∗∗200** or **500 for corporations) and your Initial List.
  • Get your EIN from the IRS (free).
  • Register with the Nevada Department of Taxation (sales/use, MBT, Commerce). Check your assigned filing frequency.
  • Confirm jurisdiction and apply for your local business license with the City of Las Vegas or Clark County (as applicable). Ask if your category is general or privileged.
  • If you serve food or beverages, start SNHD plan review early.
  • For brick‑and‑mortar, get building permits for any tenant improvements and coordinate fire inspections.
  • If you will employ staff, register with DETR for UI and secure workers’ compensation insurance.
  • Open a business bank account and set up bookkeeping and sales tax tracking.

What to prepare before you click “submit”

  • A clean, scannable PDF of your lease showing the full address, suite, and authorized use.
  • A simple floor plan (hand‑drawn is okay for licensing intake; detailed plans are required for building/SNHD).
  • Owner/manager ID copies and any background check forms (for privileged categories).
  • Your EIN confirmation letter.
  • Your NAICS code (SilverFlume can help you select it; your local category often aligns with it).
  • Proof of workers’ comp (if hiring) or a plan to secure it before the first hire.
  • Money for application fees. Some offices require exact amounts or card payments.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your upload portal errors, reduce file sizes and re‑try. If still failing, ask for an email intake address or an in‑person appointment to accept your packet.

Reality checks, warnings, and pro tips

  • Timelines stretch: Construction trades are busy; inspections may take longer than you expect. Book early and line up contractors with Nevada licenses (check at NSCB — Verify a License).
  • Budget for renewals: Your State Business License renews annually (200∗∗or∗∗200** or **500). Put it on your calendar at least 30 days before the due date.
  • Sales tax rate accuracy: Delivery location can affect tax situs in Nevada. Check the NV Tax rate tools before you program your POS.
  • Lease carefully: Many strip centers have use restrictions. Get a zoning letter or a planning confirmation before you sign or pay a large deposit.
  • Keep a compliance binder: Licenses, permits, last inspection reports, insurance, and emergency contacts in one place. Inspectors appreciate organized operators.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re at risk of missing a target opening date, consider a phased opening (retail without kitchen, for example) if allowed. Ask your licensing and health reviewers in writing.

What if you’re home‑based?

  • Check Home Occupation rules in your jurisdiction. Customer visits, signage, storage, and equipment limits are common. See your City/County business license page for the “Home Occupation” section.
  • Some activities (like full food production) are not allowed in residential kitchens without specific allowances; Nevada’s cottage food rules are limited. Confirm with SNHD.
  • You still need the State Business License and NV tax registration if you sell taxable goods or hire staff.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Consider a commercial kitchen or commissary rental. Ask SNHD for a list of permitted shared kitchens.

If you’re buying an existing business

  • Do not assume licenses transfer. Many local licenses are non‑transferable, and privileged licenses require new suitability reviews.
  • Ask the seller for recent inspection reports, outstanding corrections, and tax clearance letters.
  • Coordinate a change of ownership with SOS, Taxation, City/County, and SNHD (if applicable).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the seller lacks records, file public records requests with City/County licensing and SNHD to see the compliance history before closing.

Plan B options if you’re stuck

  • Start as a mobile or pop‑up vendor in permitted venues while you finish your permanent location licensing (ensure proper temporary permits and sales tax).
  • Partner with a permitted shared space (kitchen, tasting room, market stall) to test before committing to a full build‑out.
  • Narrow your scope to a non‑privileged activity first, then expand once stable.

About this Guide

  • Purpose: Help Nevada entrepreneurs and operators navigate business licensing in the Las Vegas area with direct links to official sources, realistic timelines, and plain‑English explanations.
  • Scope: Focused on State of Nevada requirements and Southern Nevada jurisdictions (City of Las Vegas and unincorporated Clark County), with pointers to Henderson and North Las Vegas.
  • Method: This guide cites official agencies and statutes. Fee and rate figures are from official sources where available and are flagged with amounts in bold. When figures vary by category or change frequently, we link to the exact agency page so you can verify the current amount.
  • Contact: Use the “Contact” pages on each official site to reach the correct office for your address and category. This avoids phone tag and outdated numbers.

Disclaimer

Program details, fees, tax rates, and eligibility rules change. Always verify current requirements directly with the relevant agency using the official links in this guide. This content is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or professional advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a Nevada attorney, CPA, or licensed professional.