Licenses & Permits
Click here for a Complete list of Licensing agencies
Some businesses are required to have licenses and/or permits in order to operate in New York City. The type of license or permit depends purely on the characteristics of the business. The requirements for a restaurant will be much different than a day care business. You will find that a straightforward,
simple businesses such as computer consulting, home based craft business…etc do not need any special licenses or permits.
You should always check with the issuing authority to make sure your business does not require a certain type of license or permit.
A majority of the retail and common business types can obtain their licenses from the Department of Consumer Affairs
Department of Consumer Affairs
42 Broadway, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10004
Phone: Call 311 and ask for the Department of Consumer Affairs
Online Permit Assistance and Licensing
If you want to start a new business or expand your current business, this site will help you find the New York State business permits you may need.
http://www.nys-permits.org/
By Phone
Toll free number for personal permitting assistance (800-342-3464).
By Email
permits@gorr.state.ny.us for personal permitting assistance.
For a list and links of License information and Organizations that regulate the process of starting your business in NYC, please click here
