Five Steps to License Locally
The professional list below, five steps to business licensing, is an efficient step-by-step guide developed by our business license team. Also available in printable document, use the steps as a tool to prepare a complete business license application in a timely manner. The Washoe County team is also available to support your efforts. Please email businesslicense@washoecounty.gov.
Research Business Location
Make certain that the location is in unincorporated Washoe County and that zoning is appropriate for the type of business. Zoning requirements may limit businesses entirely or additonal approvals or improvements may be required. Ask Washoe County Planning and Building team first: planning@washoecounty.gov, schedule an appointment or leave a message at (775) 328-6100. In the communication, provide the property address and description of the business.
Obtain local license application.
Washoe County Business License Applications are online, or email businesslicense@washoecounty.gov, or visit in person at 1001 E. 9th Street, Building A, Community Services Department, Reno.
Gather support documentation.
Warning: Time intensive. Obtain support documents from state and regional agencies Washoe County Business License checklist includes required documentation, links to online services and contact information.
Submit application, documents, and fees.
Submit Easily. Completed application and all supporting documents are submitted to business license team either online, by mail or in-person. Pleae make sure to complete a business license application and review the checklist of required documents. Only complete applications are accepted.
Receive Official Washoe County License
Delivered to your door. Business Licenses are mailed to the applicant upon review and approval* within 5 working days. Official Business License Certificates are not offered as an over-the-counter service. However, our business license team will send an email notifying you of license approval if you submit through OneNV.us.
*Please make time for additional partnering agency approvals. Commercial businesses with a store front and some services require additional approvals from partnering agencies. For example, public safety officials review evacuation exits and the health department will review food preparation and safety. Approval from partnering agencies is required prior to approval of a local business license. Please allocate time to submit, review and obtain agency approvals as necessary. For additional information, please email business license@washoecounty.gov.