Reno, NV Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no-fluff, step-by-step guide to getting legal in Reno, NV. You’ll find official links, timelines, real-world tips, and common pitfalls. When exact dollar amounts or rules change frequently, we link directly to the source and flag what to double-check before you pay or submit anything.

Note on accuracy: This guide avoids making up numbers. Fees, rates, and licensing rules change. Always confirm with the official sources linked under each section before you file or pay.

Quick Help (Fast Links and Contacts)

• Start here: Register your business and get your Nevada State Business License on the state’s SilverFlume portal: SilverFlume Nevada Business Portal.
• City license: Apply for your City of Reno business license: City of Reno Business Licensing — search “Business Licensing” for the latest page, forms, and portal access.
• Sales tax and state taxes: Register with the Nevada Department of Taxation: Nevada Tax Center (official online portal) and program info at Nevada Department of Taxation.
• Fictitious firm name (DBA) in Washoe County: File with the Washoe County Clerk: Washoe County Clerk – Fictitious Firm Name.
• Local health permits (restaurants, food trucks, etc.): Washoe County Health District – Environmental Health.
• Zoning and occupancy (storefronts, warehouses, home-based): City of Reno Planning, Zoning, and Building.
• Free 1:1 help: Nevada SBDC (official statewide small business advising) and SCORE Northern Nevada (free mentoring).
• Employers: Register for unemployment insurance (UI): Nevada UI Employer Registration and get workers’ comp coverage: Nevada Division of Industrial Relations – Workers’ Comp.

What You Need To Know Up Front (Big Picture)

• You likely need both a Nevada State Business License and a City of Reno business license (plus county filings and sector permits where applicable).
• The fastest path is through SilverFlume (state portal) first, then City of Reno licensing.
• Many activities are regulated (alcohol, cannabis, contractors, food, childcare, gaming, secondhand dealers, taxis/limos, salons, etc.). Expect background checks, fingerprints, inspections, and extra permits.
• If you’ll have a physical location in Reno, zoning and a Certificate of Occupancy matter as much as the license itself.
• If you sell taxable goods, charge the correct local sales tax rate at the point of sale. Verify the exact rate by address using the Department of Taxation’s official tools.
• Don’t guess fees or due dates. Use the official pages linked below. Rules change and late changes cost time and money.

At-a-Glance: Who Does What (Reno + Nevada)

Start Here: Fastest Path to Get Legal in Reno

The most important step: get your state registration and state business license first. Then do city licensing and any specialty permits.

• Pick your structure and name (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.). Check name availability and register on SilverFlume (official state portal).
• Get your Nevada State Business License (part of the SilverFlume flow). Fees differ by entity type. See the official SOS fee page linked in the section below for current amounts.
• If using a trade name (DBA), file a Fictitious Firm Name with the Washoe County Clerk.
• Register with the Nevada Department of Taxation for sales/use tax and any other applicable taxes: Nevada Tax Center.
• Apply for your City of Reno business license: City of Reno – Business Licensing (official site).
• If you have a storefront or warehouse, get zoning clearance and occupancy approvals via City of Reno Planning/Building.
• If you serve food, have a pool/spa, or do body art, get permits from Washoe County Health District – Environmental Health.
• If hiring, register as an employer with UI Employer and set up workers’ compensation through a licensed insurer: Workers’ Comp (official overview).

Realistic Timeline (Typical)

• SilverFlume setup + entity and state license: often same day to a few business days if straightforward.
• City of Reno license: varies widely. General business licenses without background checks can be relatively quick after zoning sign-off. Liquor, gaming, adult uses or body art can take weeks due to background checks and hearings.
• Health District: plan review can add weeks if you’re building out a kitchen or food truck. Inspections are required before opening.
• Zoning and occupancy: if tenant improvements are needed, budget weeks to months for plans, permits, and inspections.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Book a free session with Nevada SBDC or a mentor via SCORE Northern Nevada to troubleshoot sequencing and missing steps.
• Use SilverFlume’s help/contact from your dashboard for state tasks: SilverFlume.
• For City of Reno licensing, use the city’s site search and contact pages on reno.gov for current staff contacts and forms.

Step 1: Create Your Business on SilverFlume and Get the Nevada State Business License

Most Reno businesses must obtain a Nevada State Business License through the Secretary of State.

• Eligibility: Required for most entities conducting business in Nevada (LLCs, corporations, partnerships). Sole proprietors not forming an entity still need to assess if a state license applies to them based on state rules.
• Fees: The Nevada State Business License fee is set by statute and may differ by entity type. Historically, the fee has been different for corporations versus other entities. Do not rely on old amounts. Confirm current fees on the official page below.
• Where to apply: SilverFlume Nevada Business Portal.
• Fee schedule and statutory references: See the Secretary of State’s official pages:
  • Nevada SOS – Businesses (official hub) — find the State Business License information and current fee schedule.
  • If you need the law: Nevada Revised Statutes — search for licensing statutes and entity chapters.
• EIN: If you need an EIN, apply with the IRS for free: IRS – Apply for an EIN.

Important numbers and deadlines:

• Your Nevada State Business License is renewed annually through the Secretary of State. The renewal due date aligns with your entity’s annual/initial lists. Confirm your exact due date on SilverFlume. Late fees can apply. Always verify the due date on your SilverFlume dashboard.

Documents typically needed:

• Owners/officers/managers information and addresses.
• Registered agent in Nevada (or registered agent service).
• Business address and mailing address.
• Payment method.

Reality checks and tips:

• If you’re forming an LLC or corporation, you’ll also file your articles and an initial list. Fees are separate from the State Business License fee. Check the SOS fee schedule before paying.
• If you change entity type later (e.g., LLC to corporation), your state business license fee may change.
• If your filing is rejected, it’s usually a name conflict or missing registered agent details. Use the name availability search and confirm your registered agent’s consent.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Secretary of State (find current phone numbers and email on the official contact page via SOS Businesses).
• Use a formation professional or attorney for complex structures or multi-member agreements.
• Free advisors: Nevada SBDC can review your steps and help you use SilverFlume.

Step 2: File a Fictitious Firm Name (DBA) in Washoe County (If Needed)

If you’re a sole proprietor or partnership using a trade name (not your legal name), or if your entity wants to operate under a different public-facing name, file a Fictitious Firm Name (FFN) with Washoe County.

• Where: Washoe County Clerk – Fictitious Firm Name.
• Who needs it: Sole proprietors and partnerships commonly. Entities may also file DBAs for brand names.
• Timeline: Often same day if filled correctly. Online and in-person options may differ.
• Cost: Check the Clerk’s fee schedule for the current amount. Do not rely on old figures.
• Additional step: Some banks want a stamped FFN when opening a business account.

Documents typically needed:

• Owner’s legal name(s) and home/business addresses.
• The exact trade name you plan to use.
• Photo ID for in-person filing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Clerk (see the contact section on the page above) for help with name conflicts or rejected filings.
• Ask your bank what they require for the business account to ensure your FFN form meets their needs.

Step 3: Register with the Nevada Department of Taxation

If you sell taxable goods or certain services, you must collect and remit sales tax, and you may need other tax accounts. Register before you start collecting sales.

• Where to register: Nevada Tax Center.
• Program info and rate tools: Nevada Department of Taxation.
• Sales tax rate for Reno: Use the Department’s official rate tables and lookup tools. Rates vary by location and can change. Confirm the exact rate by address before you charge customers. See Tax – Publications & Rates and navigate to “Sales and Use Tax” rate resources.
• Other taxes: Depending on your business size and payroll, you may have filing obligations such as commerce tax or other state business taxes. Rules change; confirm your obligations on the Department’s official pages.
• Deadlines: Sales tax filings are typically monthly or quarterly based on volume. Your account setup will indicate due dates. Always verify your assigned filing frequency and due dates on your Nevada Tax Center dashboard.

Documents typically needed:

• Entity information and Nevada SOS details (NV Business ID).
• Business location(s) and NAICS code.
• Projected sales volume (for filing frequency setup).
• Bank details if setting up ACH payments.

Reality checks and tips:

• Charging the wrong tax rate is a common audit trigger. Use the official lookup tool before setting your POS settings.
• If you ship, rules for delivery charges, marketplace facilitators, and out-of-state sales can differ. Review the Department’s sales and use tax guidance on the official site.
• If your business is seasonal or you expect minimal volume, ask Taxation about filing frequency options and account closures/suspensions to avoid unnecessary late filings.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the contact options listed on the Department of Taxation website: Taxation – Contact.
• If your registration is stuck in SilverFlume, clear browser cache and try a different browser, then contact help via the portal.
• Free tax basics help: Nevada SBDC often hosts sales tax workshops and one-on-ones.

Step 4: Get Your City of Reno Business License

After your state steps, apply for your City of Reno business license.

• Where to apply: City of Reno – Business Licensing — use the site search for “Business Licensing” to reach the portal, application forms, fee schedules, and contact info.
• Who needs a Reno license: Most businesses operating within Reno city limits, including home-based businesses, mobile vendors with regular stops in Reno, and companies with a physical presence like an office, shop, or warehouse.
• Zoning check: Before you sign a lease, verify zoning and use allowances with the Planning/Building sections via City of Reno.
• Fees: Reno license fees vary by business classification (and sometimes employee count, square footage, or gross receipts). For current fees, see the City’s official Business Licensing pages and fee schedules.
• Renewal: City licenses renew annually. Due dates and proration rules vary by license type—confirm on the city’s official renewal page.

Documents typically needed:

• Nevada State Business License number and entity info.
• Fictitious Firm Name (if applicable).
• Physical address in Reno (or indicate mobile/home-based).
• Zoning approval or Home Occupation Permit if home-based.
• For regulated businesses (liquor, gaming, secondhand, adult uses, body art, massage, etc.): background checks/fingerprints and extra forms; sometimes public hearings.

Reality checks and tips:

• Don’t assume your use is allowed in the space. Some uses require a Conditional Use Permit or additional approvals.
• If you’re a mobile vendor, confirm where you can operate (private property permissions, events, public rights-of-way rules) and whether you need additional permits (fire, health).
• If you operate from home, read the Home Occupation rules on the city’s site—traffic, signage, employees on-site, and customer visits are often limited.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the City of Reno Business Licensing via the city’s website: reno.gov and use the contact directory for current phone/email.
• For contested uses, request a pre-application meeting with Planning to understand conditions, timelines, and hearing schedules.
• For difficult classifications, ask Reno to provide the specific municipal code section that applies so you can tailor your application.

Step 5: Zoning, Building, and Occupancy (Don’t Skip This)

If you have a physical location or are changing the use of a space, verify zoning and occupancy early.

• Zoning/use confirmation: Before signing a lease, ask the City’s Planning team whether your proposed use is allowed at the address and what approvals are needed. See the Planning/Building sections on City of Reno.
• Tenant improvements: If you are adding walls, plumbing, electrical, hood systems, or changing occupancy type, you will likely need building permits and inspections.
• Certificate of Occupancy: You may need a new or updated Certificate of Occupancy to operate. Ask Building & Safety.
• Fire permits: Certain operations (assembly, hazardous materials, cooking equipment) require Fire Prevention review and permits. See the Fire Department pages via City of Reno.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Book a pre-submittal meeting with Planning/Building through the city’s contact options on reno.gov.
• Bring a floor plan sketch, your equipment list, and your proposed occupancy to get precise guidance and timelines.
• If the site won’t work, ask your broker to identify “by-right” locations for your use to avoid lengthy discretionary approvals.

Step 6: Health Permits (Restaurants, Food Trucks, Caterers, Grocers, Body Art, Pools/Spas)

If you serve food or operate regulated health uses, the Washoe County Health District (Environmental Health Services) is your regulator.

• Where: Washoe County Health District – Environmental Health.
• Common permits: Food establishment permits (restaurants, catering, commissaries), mobile food permits (trucks, carts), temporary event food permits, body art facility permits, pools/spas permits and inspections.
• Plan review: New or remodeled food operations typically require plan review. Don’t start construction before approval.
• Inspections: Pre-opening and routine inspections apply. Have your manager food safety certifications ready as required.
• Fees: Fees vary by risk category and permit type. Check the Health District’s official fee schedules.

Documents typically needed:

• Menu and processes (for food).
• Equipment list and spec sheets.
• Floor plan and plumbing plans (for build-outs).
• Commissary agreement (for mobile units).
• Manager/handler certifications if required.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact Environmental Health via the Health District’s official contact info on the page above to schedule a plan review consult.
• If you inherit a space, ask for prior inspections and whether the layout/equipment will meet current code.
• If your opening is delayed, coordinate with the Health District to avoid lapses or resubmittals.

Step 7: Employer Steps (If You’ll Have Employees)

• Unemployment Insurance: Register with DETR for employer UI as soon as you hire. Where: UI Employer and DETR.
• Workers’ Comp: Nevada requires coverage for employees. Learn more: DIR Workers’ Compensation. Obtain a policy through a licensed insurer.
• Hiring compliance: Post required workplace notices, verify I‑9 eligibility, and follow wage and hour laws. See federal basics via U.S. DOL – FirstStep Poster Advisor and Nevada labor info via Nevada Labor Commissioner.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your insurance broker to quote workers’ comp options.
• If you receive conflicting UI or rate info, contact DETR through the official employer contact links.
• For HR setup, SCORE and SBDC can help you draft checklists and timelines.

Common Local and State Permits You Might Need (Beyond the Basic License)

Fees and Costs: What to Budget (Confirm Each Amount Before Paying)

This section lists typical cost line items and where to find the official amount. Do not rely on old figures; always click through to verify before paying.

Sales Tax in Reno: Getting the Rate Right

• Nevada has a statewide base sales tax, plus local add-ons. The total rate depends on the specific location. For Reno addresses, the total rate commonly differs from other Nevada cities. The Nevada Department of Taxation publishes official rate tables and a lookup tool. Always verify by address before charging customers.
• Where to verify:
  • Nevada Department of Taxation – main site — go to Publications/Tax Rate resources.
  • File and pay: Nevada Tax Center.

Tips:

• If you have multiple locations or sell at events, each location may have a different rate.
• Your POS provider should let you set rate by location; test with the official rate before going live.
• If you under-collect, you pay the difference out of pocket. If you over-collect, you must remit or refund according to state rules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact the Department of Taxation through their official contact page for help with rate lookups and nexus questions.
• Ask your CPA to review your product taxability and exemptions (e.g., manufacturing inputs, resale certificates).

Home-Based Businesses in Reno

A home-based business often needs a City of Reno business license and a Home Occupation Permit or equivalent zoning clearance.

• Where to start: City of Reno – Business Licensing and Planning.
• Limits: Common limits include signage, on-site employees, traffic, customer visits, and nuisance rules (noise, odor). Read the city’s home occupation standards.
• HOA/landlord rules: City approval doesn’t override HOA bylaws or your lease. Get written approval if required.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Planning if your activity qualifies as a home occupation or if you need a different zoning approval.
• If your home can’t support the activity (e.g., too much traffic), consider coworking or a small office/warehouse in a zone that allows your use.

Mobile Food Vendors and Caterers

• You’ll likely need:
  • City of Reno business license.
  • Washoe County Health District mobile food permit and commissary agreement.
  • Fire safety compliance (e.g., hood suppression, propane safety) verified through city fire prevention.
• Commissary: Most mobile food permits require a commissary in the county. Confirm acceptable commissaries and documentation with the Health District.
• Events: Temporary event permits may be required for specific events and venues.

Where to start:

• Reno – Business Licensing.
• Washoe County Health District – EHS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Environmental Health for a plan review consult before you buy a truck/trailer to confirm it meets code.
• Request a fire safety walkthrough if your setup includes cooking equipment or fuel systems.

Contractors Working in Reno

If you do construction or certain building trades in Nevada, you likely need a Nevada State Contractors Board license.

• Where: Nevada State Contractors Board.
• Requirements: Examination (for qualifying party), financial limits, bonds, and experience verification. City of Reno may require a city business license as well.
• Reno building permits: Separate from NSCB licensing; you still need building permits for work within city limits. See City of Reno Planning/Building.
• Contact NSCB: Use the official contact page for the Reno office. The NSCB site lists current phone numbers and office locations.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact NSCB for classification guidance if your scope spans multiple trades.
• Use SBDC/SCORE to plan your financial limit and bond strategy.
• Coordinate with building officials early for complex projects.

Regulated Industries: Liquor, Gaming, Body Art, Massage, Secondhand Dealers

• Start with the City of Reno’s Business Licensing portal to see which businesses are “privileged” or “regulated.” Expect application packets, background checks, fingerprinting, hearings, and stricter renewal rules.
• For gaming, start early with the State: Nevada Gaming Control Board. Local approvals may also be required.
• For body art, pools/spas, and certain personal services, use Washoe County Health District – EHS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the City to outline the full sequence (background checks → hearing → inspection → license issuance). Get a timeline to plan staffing and rent.
• If timing is tight, ask if temporary or conditional approvals are ever issued (many privileged licenses are not).
• Consult an attorney for gaming and liquor if you have ownership complexity or prior disciplinary history.

Renewal Calendar and Ongoing Compliance

Real-World Examples (Reno Scenarios)

• New coffee shop in Midtown Reno
  • Sequence: SilverFlume + state license → lease with zoning confirmation → building permits for tenant improvements → Health District plan review for kitchen equipment → City business license → Fire inspection → Health inspection → Open.
  • Tip: Order long-lead equipment early (ventilation, espresso machines). Schedule inspections back-to-back to avoid dead weeks.
• Home-based Etsy seller in Northwest Reno
  • Sequence: SilverFlume + state license → City of Reno home occupation review → Sales tax registration → No Health permit (no food) → Renew annually.
  • Tip: Watch HOA/lease rules about shipments, parking, and signage.
• Electrical contractor operating countywide
  • Sequence: NSCB license → SilverFlume + state license → City of Reno business license → Pull building permits per job → Workers’ comp and UI set up for employees.
  • Tip: Don’t bid work requiring a higher classification or monetary limit than your license allows. Verify permit rules for jobs in Reno vs. elsewhere in Washoe County.

“What You Actually Do” Checklist (From Zero to Open)

• Create a SilverFlume account and register your entity.
• Get your Nevada State Business License in SilverFlume.
• File a Washoe County Fictitious Firm Name if operating under a trade name.
• Register for sales/use tax (and other applicable taxes) at Nevada Tax Center.
• Confirm zoning and occupancy with the City of Reno before signing a lease.
• Apply for the City of Reno business license.
• If applicable, submit Health District plan review and schedule inspections.
• Set up workers’ comp and register for UI as soon as you hire.
• Post required labor notices and set your sales tax rate in your POS.
• Mark renewal dates on your calendar and set auto-reminders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signing a lease before verifying zoning/occupancy: If the use isn’t allowed, your build-out and opening can be delayed for months.
• Charging the wrong sales tax rate: Use the state’s official rate lookup by address. Don’t rely on generic “city” rates.
• Skipping Health District plan review: Unapproved layouts or equipment can lead to costly rework.
• Assuming one license covers everything: You often need state, city, and county/health permits, plus specialty licenses.
• Missing renewal dates: Late fees add up; set calendar alerts for all renewals.
• Not getting a DBA when needed: Banks may refuse to open accounts under your trade name without the FFN filing.
• Hiring before workers’ comp/UI setup: Nevada enforcement is strict, and penalties are expensive.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If You’re Stuck

• Use the official portals’ help and contact pages first (SilverFlume, Nevada Tax Center, City of Reno). Staff can see your application status.
• Schedule free 1:1 help: Nevada SBDC or SCORE Northern Nevada. Bring your application receipts and emails.
• For legal or highly regulated issues (liquor, gaming, corporate structure changes), consult a Nevada business attorney familiar with Reno municipal code.

Inclusivity, Diversity & Accessibility Resources (Nevada + Reno)

• Women-owned, Minority-owned, and Disadvantaged Businesses
  • Certification options:
    • SBA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program — federal contracting.
    • SBA 8(a) Business Development — socially/economically disadvantaged owners.
    • USDOT DBE Program in Nevada (via NDOT) — transportation-funded projects (certification managed through Nevada DOT).
  • Local help:
    • Nevada SBDC — inclusive advising and training.
    • Supplier diversity directories (non-governmental): NMSDC (minority supplier development), WBENC (women’s business certification).
• Veteran-owned
  • Certification: SBA Veteran Small Business Certification – VetCert.
  • Local veteran resources: Check the Nevada Department of Veterans Services for entrepreneurship programs: NDVS.
• LGBTQ+ owned
  • Certification: NGLCC LGBTBE Certification.
  • Local ecosystem: Reno/Tahoe and Northern Nevada chambers often maintain member directories and inclusive networking: The Chamber (Reno + Sparks).
• Disability-owned
  • Certification: Disability:IN – DOBE Certification.
  • Workplace accessibility: ADA guidance: ADA.gov.
• Immigrant-owned and language access
  • Translation/interpreter help: City and county websites provide language assistance and translation toggles where available. Check the footer or “Accessibility/Language” links on:
    • City of Reno
    • Washoe County
    • Nevada Department of Taxation
  • Free legal/business help clinics sometimes offered via Nevada SBDC and local nonprofits. See Nevada SBDC Events.

Accessibility tip:

• If you need reasonable accommodations for hearings or meetings (e.g., ASL interpretation), request them early via the agency contact forms on the official pages above.

Frequently Asked Questions (Nevada/Reno-Specific)

• Do I need both a Nevada State Business License and a City of Reno business license?
  Yes, most businesses need both. The state license is handled by the Nevada Secretary of State through SilverFlume; the city license is separate and issued by the City of Reno. See SilverFlume and Reno Business Licensing.
• What is the current fee for the Nevada State Business License?
  Fees vary by entity type and can change. Check the official fee schedule from the SOS via NV SOS – Businesses. Do not rely on outdated numbers.
• How do I find the correct sales tax rate for my Reno store?
  Use the Nevada Department of Taxation’s official rate tables/lookup tools: Taxation. Rates depend on your exact address.
• I’m working from home. Do I still need a City of Reno license?
  Generally yes if you’re operating within city limits. You may also need a Home Occupation Permit or similar clearance. See Reno – Business Licensing and Planning.
• Do food trucks need both city and county approvals?
  Yes. You’ll need a City of Reno business license and Washoe County Health District permits (plus commissary and fire safety compliance). Start at Reno and Health District – EHS.
• I’m a contractor. Can I bid without an NSCB license?
  Generally no. Nevada requires contractor licensing for most construction work. Start with NSCB and secure your City of Reno business license for work in Reno.
• What if my use isn’t allowed at my chosen address?
  Talk to Planning about alternative zones or permits (e.g., Conditional Use Permit). Reconsider your site to avoid long delays. See Reno Planning/Building.
• When are my renewals due?
  State business license and entity lists renew annually per your entity schedule in SilverFlume. City of Reno licenses renew annually (varies by type). Sales tax filings follow assigned frequencies. Check your dashboards: SilverFlume and Nevada Tax Center.
• Where do I file my DBA (Fictitious Firm Name)?
  With the Washoe County Clerk: Washoe County Clerk – FFN.
• Is there free help for setting this up?
  Yes. Nevada SBDC and SCORE Northern Nevada offer free advising and mentoring.

Deep-Dive Tables (Links You’ll Use Repeatedly)

A. Core Applications and Portals

B. Zoning and Inspections

C. Regulated and Specialty Licenses

D. Employer Compliance

E. Small Business Support

Reality Check: Budget and Timing Risks (Plan Ahead)

• Build-out delays: Inspections and supply chain delays for equipment can push openings by weeks or months. Add a buffer to your lease timeline.
• Licensing hearing lead times: For liquor/gaming/privileged licenses, public meeting calendars can add weeks. Ask for the next available agenda date.
• Sales tax surprises: If you under-collect, you’ll pay the difference plus penalties/interest. Set your POS rate only after checking the state’s official rate lookup.
• Renewal complexity: Staggered due dates (state entity list, state license, city license, health permits) can be confusing. Use a calendar with reminders 30 days ahead.

What to Do If Cash Is Tight (Cut Costs Without Cutting Corners)

• Use Nevada SBDC to map only the permits you truly need. Unnecessary filings waste money.
• Start with a pop-up or shared kitchen (with proper permits) before committing to a full build-out.
• Lease shorter initial terms with options if zoning or approvals are uncertain.
• Consider home-based operation if allowed for your activity, then scale to commercial space once revenue proves out.

What to Do If You Get a Notice or Citation

• Read the notice completely and note any deadlines in bold. Respond before the deadline to avoid escalations.
• Contact the issuing agency via the official contact listed on the notice (or the contact pages linked above).
• Fix the root cause (e.g., missing tax filing, expired permit) and ask if penalties can be mitigated after compliance.
• Keep a compliance log: dates, who you spoke to, and what was submitted.

What to Do If You’re Operating Near City Limits or in the County

Reno city licensing applies within city limits. If you’re outside city limits (in unincorporated Washoe County) or in Sparks, your local licensing authority changes.

• Check your address jurisdiction using city/county GIS tools on Reno and Washoe County.
• For Washoe County businesses outside Reno, start at the County’s business pages via washoecounty.gov.
• For Sparks addresses, see the City of Sparks business licensing: City of Sparks.

Source Notes and How to Verify

All claims and processes in this guide link to official sources:

• State formation and licensing: SilverFlume Nevada Business Portal and NV SOS – Businesses.
• Sales/use tax and tax rates: Nevada Department of Taxation and Nevada Tax Center.
• City business licensing, zoning, permits: City of Reno.
• Health permits: Washoe County Health District – EHS.
• Employer UI: UI Employer. Workers’ comp: DIR WCS.
• Specialty licensing: NSCB, Gaming Control Board, NTA, NV Massage Board.

When amounts are required (fees, rates), use the current fee schedules and rate tables on these official pages. If a page lists an “effective date,” record it for your files. If you find discrepancies, contact the agency for clarification and keep the email or letter for your records.

About This Guide

• Scope: Focused on Reno, Nevada licensing with state steps that apply statewide.
• Method: Links to official sources only. No made-up numbers. Processes summarized for speed, with notes on where to confirm fees and deadlines.
• Audience: First-time and experienced owners who need a Reno-specific, practical roadmap.
• Data freshness: Last updated September 2025. Rules and fees change; always verify using the official links provided in each section.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, accounting, or regulatory advice. Program details, fees, deadlines, and laws change. Always verify information directly with the relevant agency using the official links provided in this guide. If you have specific questions about your situation, consult the appropriate agency or a qualified professional.