Scottsdale, AZ Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help (read this first)

• If you will sell taxable goods or services in Scottsdale (in person or online), you almost certainly need an Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license that lists Scottsdale. Apply at Arizona Department of Revenue — AZTaxes e-services (state portal).
• Scottsdale does not issue a general “city business license” for most businesses. However, many activities do require city approvals (zoning, permits) and some industries need special city or county/state permits. See City of Scottsdale — official site and the Arizona Commerce Authority Small Business Checklist to confirm what you need.
• Food businesses (restaurants, caterers, food trucks) must get permits from Maricopa County Environmental Services before opening. Start with Maricopa County Environmental Services — Food. Phone: 602-506-6616.
• Building out a space in Scottsdale? Talk to Planning & Development Services early about zoning, change of use, tenant improvements, fire, and signs. Start at City of Scottsdale — Planning & Development (use the site search for “Planning & Development”). Main City line: 480-312-3111.
• Short-term/vacation rentals in Scottsdale usually require a city license/permit and neighbor notification. Go to City of Scottsdale — Short-Term Rentals and search for “short-term rentals.”
• TPT tax returns are generally due by the 20th of the month following the reporting period (monthly filers). File and pay at AZTaxes. For questions call ADOR at 602-255-3381 (Phoenix) or 800-352-4090 (toll-free in AZ).
• Need free 1:1 help? Contact the Maricopa SBDC (Small Business Development Center) for licensing and startup counseling at Maricopa SBDC. They are SBA resource partners (no-cost advising).

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How business licensing works in Scottsdale (what you really need to know)

Start here:

• Most Scottsdale businesses do not need a separate “City of Scottsdale business license.” Instead, sales tax licensing is handled statewide through the Arizona Department of Revenue’s Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) system, which covers the state and participating cities (including Scottsdale). Source: Arizona Department of Revenue — TPT overview.
• If you make taxable sales that are sourced to Scottsdale (for example, a Scottsdale storefront, jobsite, or deliveries into Scottsdale), you generally must add Scottsdale to your TPT license and collect the correct combined tax rate. Confirm your rates with the ADOR TPT rate lookup and set up your returns in AZTaxes.
• Scottsdale still enforces zoning, building safety, fire code, signage, and certain local regulatory permits (for specific activities). Even if you sell only online, check zoning if you plan to work from home in Scottsdale. Use the city’s site: City of Scottsdale — Planning & Development.
• Food, pools, some body art, and other health-related operations are regulated by Maricopa County Environmental Services. Source: Maricopa County Environmental Services Department. Food info: Food Establishments. Phone: 602-506-6616.
• Many industries require a state license (contractors, liquor, childcare, cosmetology, etc.). Use these agencies’ official sites:
  • Contractors: Arizona Registrar of Contractors, phone 602-542-1525.
  • Liquor: Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses & Control, phone 602-542-5141.
  • Childcare: Arizona Department of Health Services — Child Care Licensing.
  • Cosmetology/Barbering: Arizona State Board of Cosmetology.

Reality check:

• Arizona centralizes sales tax licensing at the state level. That makes things simpler for multi-city businesses, but you’ll still deal with the City of Scottsdale for property-related approvals, fire code, and some local permits. Expect to coordinate across city, county, and state — plan your timeline accordingly.
• Fees, processing times, and requirements change. Always verify current details using the official links above.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re stuck between agencies, call the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Small Business Checklist support for routing help: ACA Small Business Checklist. You can also call ADOR TPT support at 602-255-3381 and the City of Scottsdale main line at 480-312-3111 to get to the correct city division.

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Quick table: Who licenses what (Scottsdale, Maricopa County, and State)

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Step-by-step: From idea to legal operation in Scottsdale

Step 1 — Confirm your business structure and register it (LLC, corporation, etc.)

Do this first to lock in your business name and owners:

• Form your LLC or corporation with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC). Use the online filing system at ACC eCorp. The ACC is the official state registrar for LLCs and corporations. Fee and processing time depend on filing type (standard vs. expedited). Check current fees on the ACC website: ACC Corporations Division.
• If you will use a “doing business as” (DBA) trade name different from your legal name, register the trade name with the Arizona Secretary of State (not the ACC). See the official instructions at Arizona Secretary of State — Trade Names & Trademarks.
• Get your EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS if needed. Apply free online at IRS — Apply for an EIN.
• Open a business bank account and keep business money separate from personal money. Many banks ask for your ACC approval (for LLC/corp), EIN letter, and operating agreement or corporate resolution.

Documents you’ll likely need:

• ACC entity approval (LLC or corporation).
• EIN confirmation letter (IRS).
• Trade name certificate (if you use a DBA).
• Arizona driver’s license or ID and proof of address.

Plan B if you’re stuck:

• Ask the Maricopa SBDC for free help with formation steps and filings: Maricopa SBDC.
• ACC support is available through its site: ACC Corporations Division.

Step 2 — Check Scottsdale zoning and permits (before you sign a lease)

This is critical if you’ll have a physical location in Scottsdale:

• Confirm your use is allowed at the address. Contact Scottsdale Planning & Development Services (PDS) via the city website: City of Scottsdale — Planning & Development. Call the City main line at 480-312-3111 and ask for Planning & Development if you need to speak with staff.
• If you’re changing a prior use (example: retail space to restaurant), ask about “change of use” and required tenant improvements. You may need building permits, fire upgrades, grease interceptors, and new parking calculations.
• Ask about a Certificate of Occupancy or Final Building Approval before opening to the public.
• Signs, window film, and outdoor seating all have rules. Ask PDS about sign permits and patio approvals.
• If you will operate from home in Scottsdale, review “home occupation” rules (parking, signage, noise, customer visits). Go to the city site and search for “Home Occupation.”

Documents you’ll likely need:

• A basic floor plan or site plan (for staff to help you verify zoning and tenant improvements).
• Prior approvals or permits for the space (if available).
• Your proposed business operations summary.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the site isn’t zoned for your use, ask PDS about other zoning districts that allow it.
• Consider a different location or a different approach (for example, shared kitchen for food startups) until you can secure a compliant site.

Step 3 — Get your Arizona TPT (sales tax) license and set up Scottsdale as a location

This is the sales tax license that covers the State of Arizona and participating cities, including Scottsdale:

• Apply at AZTaxes (ADOR e-services). Use the Joint Tax Application to register for TPT (and also withholding if you need it). See ADOR’s TPT page: Arizona Department of Revenue — TPT.
• Add your Scottsdale location (or service area) on the application so your license includes the city. If you sell into multiple AZ cities, add each one.
• Remote sellers and marketplace facilitators: Arizona requires TPT collection if your sales into Arizona exceed $100,000 in the current or prior calendar year (economic nexus). See ADOR’s official guidance: ADOR — Remote Sellers & Marketplace Facilitators. Verify your status if you’re online-only.
• Filing frequency (monthly, quarterly, or annually) is assigned by ADOR based on your expected tax liability. You file and pay at AZTaxes. Due dates: returns are generally due by the 20th of the month following the reporting period. Source: ADOR — TPT Filing & Due Dates.

Costs and processing:

• TPT license fees are set by ADOR and may include per-location fees. Fees can change; check the current amounts here: ADOR — TPT Licensing Fees.
• Online processing is usually the fastest. If you mail a paper application, expect more time.

Common documents you will need:

• EIN (or SSN for sole proprietors without employees).
• Legal entity information (LLC/corp details), owners/officers.
• NAICS business activity code(s).
• Business start date and physical address(es).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call ADOR for help at 602-255-3381 (Phoenix) or 800-352-4090.
• Schedule a no-cost session with the Maricopa SBDC to walk through your registration in AZTaxes: Maricopa SBDC.

Step 4 — Health permits (food, beverage, mobile food, catering)

If you handle open food, you must involve Maricopa County Environmental Services before opening:

• Start with plan review if you are building or remodeling a food facility. See MCESD — Food Establishments. Phone: 602-506-6616.
• Food trucks and mobile units require specific mobile food permitting. See MCESD — Mobile Food (mobile section).
• After plan approval and construction, schedule pre-opening inspections to obtain your operating permit.
• Scottsdale still requires you to handle zoning, building, fire, and grease interceptor requirements at the city level. Coordinate both the City and MCESD timelines to avoid delays.

Fees and timelines:

• MCESD fees and review times vary by facility type and scope. Check current fees directly with the County: MCESD — Fee Schedules & Applications. If you can’t find a fee posted for your exact case, call 602-506-6616.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your first plan review gets corrections, request a plan review meeting with MCESD to walk through required changes.
• Consider opening inside a licensed shared kitchen or commissary to reduce build-out costs and speed your launch.

Step 5 — Liquor licensing (if applicable)

Alcohol licensing involves both the state (DLLC) and local government:

• Review the license series that fits your concept (restaurant, bar, tasting room, off-sale, craft producer). Start at Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses & Control. Phone: 602-542-5141.
• You will complete the state process and also meet local posting/hearing requirements in Scottsdale. The DLLC website explains the steps and timelines for each license series.
• For events with alcohol, explore special event liquor permits at the DLLC site and coordinate with Scottsdale’s special events team through the city website.

Costs and timelines:

• DLLC posts fees by license series and renewal. Verify current amounts here: DLLC — License Series & Fees.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask DLLC licensing to confirm the right series for your concept and whether a quota issue affects timing.
• Consider a BYO model or partnering with a licensed caterer while your own license is pending.

Step 6 — Contractors and trades

If you perform contracting work in Scottsdale (beyond basic handyman exceptions):

• You likely need an Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) license for your trade. See Arizona ROC — Licensing. Phone: 602-542-1525.
• Scottsdale will require building permits for applicable work. Coordinate with Planning & Development for plan review and inspections via the city website.
• Subcontractors and specialty trades should confirm if a separate ROC classification is required (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.).

Costs and timelines:

• ROC license fees vary by classification and are posted on the ROC site: ROC — Fees & Classifications.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure about your scope, ask ROC to confirm the correct license class.
• For small jobs, check whether they fall under “handyman” thresholds (but verify the current limit on the ROC site before proceeding).

Step 7 — Short-term and vacation rentals

Scottsdale regulates short-term rentals (STRs). Expect a local license/registration, contact posting, and neighbor notification:

• Go to the City of Scottsdale site and search “Short-Term Rentals” for the current Scottsdale STR licensing page and steps: City of Scottsdale — Short-Term Rentals.
• State law in Arizona allows STRs but permits cities to require licenses and enforce health/safety rules. Confirm Scottsdale’s current requirements, fees, and renewal timelines on the city page.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your initial STR application is delayed, call the City main number 480-312-3111 and ask for the department that manages STR licensing for help with your file.
• Consider hiring a local STR compliance service to manage licensing, tax, and neighbor notifications.

Step 8 — Employees, payroll, and employer accounts

If you will hire staff in Scottsdale:

• Register for Arizona withholding and TPT through ADOR (if you have not already). Use AZTaxes. See ADOR — Withholding.
• Register for Unemployment Insurance Tax with the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). Start at DES — Employer. You can usually complete employer registration via the Joint Tax Application or DES employer portal.
• Report new hires within 20 days of hire as required by federal law. Use Arizona New Hire Reporting Center.
• Set up workers’ compensation if required. See the Industrial Commission of Arizona: Industrial Commission of Arizona — Workers’ Compensation.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If employer account numbers are slow to arrive, call ADOR at 602-255-3381 and DES via the employer contacts listed on the DES site.
• Use a reputable payroll provider to help with AZ withholding, UI reporting, and new hire filings.

Step 9 — Home-based businesses in Scottsdale

Operating from home? Scottsdale allows home occupations with rules to protect neighborhoods:

• Review Scottsdale’s home occupation standards on the city website: City of Scottsdale — Home Occupation (search). Typical rules address traffic, signage, noise, and customer visits.
• Some businesses (like food production) may not be allowed from a residential kitchen unless you qualify under Arizona’s cottage food program, which is regulated by the Arizona Department of Health Services. See ADHS — Cottage Food Program.
• Even home-based e-commerce businesses must register for TPT if their activity triggers TPT duties (for example, taxable retail sales into Arizona/Scottsdale). See ADOR — TPT.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your activity isn’t allowed in a residential zone, explore co-working, studios, or shared commercial kitchens as a low-cost alternative.
• Ask PDS about whether a minor amendment or variance would be relevant (rare), but most home occupation rules are prescriptive and not varianced.

Step 10 — Special events, peddlers/solicitors, alarms, and other local permits

Some activities require Scottsdale-specific permits:

• Special events (street fairs, races, festivals) require city permits and coordination. Start at the City’s site and search “Special Events.” You may also need temporary TPT and possibly DLLC special event permits if alcohol is served.
• Peddlers/solicitors (door-to-door) often require permits and have time/place restrictions. Confirm current Scottsdale rules on the city website.
• Alarm systems (for business premises) may require a local alarm permit. Check the Scottsdale Police Department section of the city site.
• Sign permits are required for most exterior signs, window signs above a certain coverage, and some temporary banners.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the City main number 480-312-3111 and ask to be routed to the correct division (Special Events, Licensing, Police Alarms, or Planning & Development).
• If your timeline is tight, ask whether expedited review or a pre-application meeting is available.

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Filing and paying TPT for Scottsdale: your ongoing obligations

Do this right away:

• Log in to AZTaxes and verify your locations, business codes, and filing frequency. Confirm your Scottsdale region/location is listed so city tax gets reported correctly.
• Use the ADOR rate lookup to confirm the combined tax rate for your activity in Scottsdale (state + county + city). Rates differ by business classification (for example, retail vs. restaurant) and can change.

Deadlines and frequency:

• TPT returns are typically due on the 20th of the month following the period (for monthly filers). If the 20th falls on a weekend/holiday, the next business day applies. ADOR assigns your filing frequency based on your tax liability. Source: ADOR — TPT Filing & Due Dates.
• Pay electronically in AZTaxes. Late filing can trigger penalties and interest per ADOR rules (see ADOR’s penalty and interest policy pages).

Recordkeeping:

• Keep invoices, receipts, exemption certificates, and sales reports for audit. ADOR and the City may audit your records. See ADOR — TPT for audit guidance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your return is rejected or you made a mistake, use AZTaxes to amend, or call ADOR at 602-255-3381.
• If you can’t pay in full, ask ADOR about payment plan options.

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Real-world examples (Scottsdale scenarios)

• Retail shop in Old Town: You form an LLC with ACC, get your TPT license with Scottsdale listed in AZTaxes, confirm the storefront zoning with PDS, get a sign permit, and — if you sell snacks — check with MCESD for prepackaged vs. open food rules.
• Food truck serving events: You set up your LLC, get TPT, then complete MCESD plan review for mobile food. For events in Scottsdale, you determine whether a city event permit is needed and whether the event organizer covers your access. You file monthly TPT returns reporting Scottsdale sales by event location.
• Short-term rental host: You register for a Scottsdale STR license via the City’s program page, post required information on-site, notify neighbors per city rules, and file TPT if required for your rental activity (ADOR details for transient lodging apply).
• General contractor: You secure the ROC license for your trade, get TPT for prime contracting or appropriate classifications, and pull Scottsdale building permits for each job site needing city inspections. You maintain certificates of insurance and meet city inspection milestones.
• Mobile hairstylist: You hold the state cosmetology license, secure TPT if you sell taxable products, follow Scottsdale home occupation rules if you base from home, and carry client records and receipts for audit readiness.

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Table: Common Scottsdale business types and approvals

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Costs and timelines: what to expect

Because fees change, verify each link for current amounts. Use this as a planning tool.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If fees are unclear, call the listed agency number on their site.
• If timelines are critical, ask about expedited review or pre-application meetings (where offered).

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Document checklist (Scottsdale-focused)

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Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)

• Skipping zoning checks before signing a lease. Fix: Call 480-312-3111 and ask Planning & Development to confirm your use at the address.
• Applying for TPT without adding Scottsdale as a location/region. Fix: Update your locations in AZTaxes so your city tax reports correctly.
• Underestimating build-out costs and time (grease interceptor, fire systems, ADA access). Fix: Schedule a pre-application meeting with Scottsdale PDS and engage a licensed design professional early.
• Opening a food business without MCESD plan review/permit. Fix: Start at MCESD Food and get plan review done before construction.
• Missing TPT filing deadlines. Fix: Set calendar reminders for the 20th due date. File even if zero sales to avoid penalties.
• Using the wrong TPT business classification. Fix: Call ADOR at 602-255-3381 to confirm your activity codes and adjust if needed.
• Not registering short-term rentals with the City (if required). Fix: Use the City’s STR licensing page and finish neighbor notifications.
• Hiring employees without setting up withholding, UI tax, and new hire reporting. Fix: Register through AZTaxes and Arizona New Hire Reporting.
• Forgetting sign permits. Fix: Ask Scottsdale PDS about temporary banners and permanent signage before ordering signs.
• Not keeping records for audit. Fix: Retain invoices, receipts, bank statements, and exemption certificates for the period ADOR recommends.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, contact the responsible agency (ADOR, City PDS, MCESD) and ask how to correct it. Many issues can be fixed with amended returns, after-the-fact permits, or corrective inspections.

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Compliance calendar: sales tax and beyond

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you miss a deadline, act quickly. File late returns in AZTaxes and contact ADOR about penalties. For city permits, call 480-312-3111 to explain your situation and request guidance.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Arizona and local)

These resources can help women-owned, minority-owned, disabled-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+, and immigrant-owned businesses:

• State of Arizona — Disparagement-free procurement and certifications:
  Explore supplier diversity and procurement registration through the State’s vendor portal at Arizona Procurement Portal. Some public entities run their own small/minority business programs.
• SBA certifications and federal contracting:
  • Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB): SBA WOSB.
  • 8(a) Business Development: SBA 8(a) Program.
  • Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business: SBA SDVOSB.
  • HUBZone: SBA HUBZone.
• Arizona PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance, now APEX Accelerators):
  Free help getting into government contracting: Arizona APEX Accelerator.
• Minority/Women business resources in Arizona:
  • Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
  • American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona.
  • Black Chamber of Arizona.
  • Women’s Business Center (Chicanos Por La Causa).
  • National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) — Certification.
• Veteran-owned:
  • Certification and resources through Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services.
  • Federal resources via VA OSDBU.
• Disability-owned:
  • Disability:IN — DOBE Certification.
  • Accessibility guidance for your shop/website: ADA.gov — Small Business.
• Immigrant entrepreneurs:
  • Free business counseling via SBDC: Maricopa SBDC.
  • Arizona language access resources vary by agency; many sites offer Spanish materials (MCESD and ADOR have multilingual pages).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a certification is confusing, contact the Maricopa SBDC for hands-on help.
• For local Scottsdale city supplier registration, use the city website’s procurement/purchasing page; if you can’t find it, call 480-312-3111 and ask for Purchasing.

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Frequently asked questions (Scottsdale, AZ)

• Do I need a City of Scottsdale business license?
  Most businesses do not need a separate city “business license.” You usually need an Arizona TPT license that includes Scottsdale. Confirm city-specific permits (zoning, building, STR, events) on the City of Scottsdale website and sales tax obligations with ADOR — TPT.
• Where do I get the TPT license?
  Apply online at AZTaxes. For help, call ADOR at 602-255-3381 or 800-352-4090.
• What’s the filing deadline for TPT?
  Returns are generally due by the 20th of the month following the reporting period for monthly filers. See ADOR — TPT Filing & Due Dates.
• I only sell online — do I still need TPT?
  Possibly. If you ship to Arizona and exceed $100,000 in Arizona sales (current or prior year), you likely have economic nexus and must collect. Check ADOR — Remote Sellers.
• I’m opening a restaurant in Scottsdale. Who inspects me?
  MCESD handles food safety plan review and inspections. The City of Scottsdale handles building, fire, and zoning. Start here: MCESD Food and City of Scottsdale — Planning & Development. MCESD phone: 602-506-6616.
• I want to run an Airbnb/VRBO in Scottsdale. What do I need?
  You will likely need a Scottsdale short-term rental license/registration, a 24/7 contact posting, neighbor notice, and compliance with safety rules. See the City’s STR page via City of Scottsdale (search “short-term rentals”).
• Do contractors working in Scottsdale need a city license?
  Contractors generally need an Arizona ROC license and must pull Scottsdale building permits for permitted work. See ROC — Licensing and the City site for permits.
• Are professional services (like consulting) taxable?
  Many services are not taxable under Arizona TPT, but exceptions exist. Confirm your classification with ADOR at 602-255-3381 and review the ADOR TPT classifications.
• Do I need a sign permit?
  Most permanent exterior signs and many temporary banners require a Scottsdale sign permit. Visit the City website and search “Sign Permit” or call 480-312-3111 to reach Planning & Development.
• Who can help me for free?
  The Maricopa SBDC offers no-cost advising on licensing, taxes, and planning. Visit Maricopa SBDC. For tax-specific questions, contact ADOR at 602-255-3381.

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Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• Lease only after zoning confirmation: Scottsdale has neighborhood protections. A site visit or a quick zoning check can save months of delay.
• Build-out budgets: Kitchens and salons often need plumbing, ventilation, and ADA upgrades. Ask your architect or contractor to price the code items first.
• Sales tax setup: In AZ, the “TPT” license is your sales tax license. Make sure Scottsdale appears in your account so city tax is reported correctly.
• Health permit lead time: MCESD plan review + construction + inspection can take weeks to months. Sequence your contractors around the plan approval stage.
• STRs: Rules change with state law and local ordinances. Always re-check the City’s STR page before you list your property.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your timeline slips, focus on the items with long lead times (MCESD plan review, building permits, fire system work).
• Consider a phased opening (soft opening without alcohol, retail without signage, etc.) only if and when allowed — always get written approval from the agency first.

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Contact directory (bookmark this)

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If you’re renovating or building in Scottsdale: start here

Do this first:

• Ask the City about your scope. Call 480-312-3111 and request Planning & Development. Bring your basic floor plan and describe operations to get a sense of permits and reviews needed.
• For restaurants and salons, ask early about grease interceptors, ventilation, plumbing fixture counts, electrical load, and ADA access. These drive budget and time.
• Coordinate your MCESD plan review (for food) alongside city building plans so you’re not re-drawing twice.

Tips:

• Use licensed professionals (architects, engineers, ROC-licensed contractors).
• Ask for a pre-application meeting if the project is complex.
• Get sign permits separate from building permits if needed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If plan review is delayed, request a status meeting to resolve comments faster.
• Consider a smaller initial scope (phase 1) to open faster, then add features later — only if permitted by the City and County.

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“What to bring” — your first visits/calls to each agency

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What to do if you hit a wall with any agency

• Keep notes: name, date/time, what was said. It helps when you escalate.
• Ask for a supervisor or pre-application meeting when questions get complex.
• Bring a design professional or accountant into the call/meeting for technical issues (plans, tax classifications).
• Use the Maricopa SBDC as a neutral helper to coordinate across agencies: Maricopa SBDC.

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Sources you can trust (verify fees, rates, and rules here)

• Arizona Department of Revenue — Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) — Official TPT licensing, tax rate lookup, classifications, filing, due dates.
• AZTaxes e-services portal — Apply for TPT, file and pay, manage locations.
• City of Scottsdale — Official Website — Planning & Development, special events, STR, sign permits.
• Maricopa County Environmental Services — Food Establishments — Food permit plan review, inspections, mobile food.
• Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses & Control — Liquor series, fees, applications, local process.
• Arizona Registrar of Contractors — Contractor licensing and classifications.
• Arizona Secretary of State — Trade Names & Trademarks — DBA/trade name registration.
• Arizona Corporation Commission — eCorp — LLC and corporation filings.
• Industrial Commission of Arizona — Workers’ Compensation — Workers’ comp information.
• Arizona Department of Economic Security — Employer — Unemployment Insurance Tax, employer resources.
• Arizona Commerce Authority — Small Business Checklist — Step-by-step licensing roadmap by business type and location.

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What to do if this doesn’t work (final fallback)

• Call ADOR for TPT help at 602-255-3381 or 800-352-4090.
• Call the City of Scottsdale at 480-312-3111 and ask for Planning & Development or the division that matches your question (STR, signs, special events, police alarms).
• Call MCESD for food permitting at 602-506-6616.
• Book a no-cost advising session with the Maricopa SBDC: Maricopa SBDC.

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About this guide

• This guide focuses on Scottsdale, Arizona, and consolidates the key city, county, and state steps for licensing and permitting a small business.
• Laws, fees, and policies change. For dollar amounts, fees, and due dates, always rely on the linked official agency pages.
• When a specific amount isn’t shown here, use the official link provided and confirm the current figure. If you need exact fees, call the posted phone numbers for the agency.
• We cite official sources throughout and steer you to primary sites for verification, in line with Google’s helpful content and E-E-A-T principles.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. It is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Program details, fees, and rules change. Always verify requirements, deadlines, and costs with the responsible agency using the official links and phone numbers provided. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult the relevant agency or a qualified professional.