Start a Business in Durham

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 Based on gross receipts

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Overview

Starting a business in Durham requires a Business Privilege License through the Finance Department, Revenue Division. Base fee: Based on gross receipts. No general state business license. Privilege license tax was repealed in 2015.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

✓County: health department permit + fire inspection

✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

County: health department permit + fire inspection

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: Based on gross receipts depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Finance Department, Revenue Division

Phone: 919-560-4161

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Research Triangle — biotech/tech hub

⚠ Durham County health department for food permits

⚠ Duke University area zoning considerations

⚠ NC privilege license requirements vary by business type

⚠ North Carolina requires annual report filing with the Secretary of State to maintain business status

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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Read our complete Durham business license guide →