Start a Business in Seattle

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $110–$400

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Overview

Starting a business in Seattle requires a Seattle Business License Tax Certificate through the City Finance. Base fee: $110–$400. Master Business License system is unique — one application for multiple registrations. But does NOT cover all city licenses.

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: $110–$400 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$110–$400

Restaurant$200–$1,000+

County Health Department

King County Public Health (King County)

(206) 296-4600

https://kingcounty.gov/depts/health

Contact

City Finance

Phone: 206-684-8484

700 5th Ave, Suite 4250, Seattle, WA 98104

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ WA Master Business License covers state — but Seattle requires SEPARATE city license

⚠ Subcontractors need their own license even if contractor has one

⚠ Out-of-city businesses conducting business in Seattle need license if above $4,000/year threshold (2026)

⚠ All licenses expire December 31 regardless of issue date

⚠ Half-price licenses issued after July 1

⚠ Regulatory endorsements needed for marijuana, taxis, short-term rentals, adult entertainment, towing

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 Seattle business license guide →