What Business Licenses & Permits are Needed in Maine?
Starting a in will mean potentially registering with a number of federal, and local agencies. Let’s take a look at common licenses and permits a will register for in .
Before applying for any licenses, the legal structure of the will need to be established. Learn more about the differences between the , , , and (LLC).
Related: Comparison of Entities
Learn more about forming an LLC in Maine
Also see: Steps to starting a business in Maine
There is no general of , however, many cities require businesses to be licensed in order to operate. Rules for registration vary depending on location and what the does. Below are a few cities that have requirements.
Portland – Many businesses operating in Portland’s limits will need an inspection or approval from zoning, building inspection, fire approval, and a health inspection for food service operations.
In addition, several types of businesses require a to operate. A few regulated businesses in Portland include; breweries, massage therapists, mobile food vendors, and several others. Regulated licenses require a $45 .
Contact the Administrator for more information.
Lewiston -The Lewiston requires for certain types of businesses, a few of which include; junkyards, bowling alleys, flea markets, roller skating rinks, and a few others.
Bangor – is required only for certain businesses in Bangor, . A few licensed businesses include caterers, businesses selling alcohol, marijuana cultivators, pawnshops, and more.
Auburn – Several types of businesses operating in Auburn require a from the . Regulated businesses include; food service operations, tattoo artists, pool halls, and a few others.
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Building & Zoning Permits
Zoning – Depending on the location of the , it’s important to verify whether the needs an occupancy  or has specific zoning regulations to follow. Depending on requirements, home-based businesses may need to apply for a home occupation .
Building – A building may be needed from the or county building and planning if there is any construction or renovations to a facility.
Signage – Some municipalities require a before adding signage.
Number
Registration – Any that sells taxable products & services or has employees needs to register with Revenue Services. This will allow a to register for a Sales & Use , Service Provider , and/or Withholding Taxes.
Businesses purchasing merchandise to resell will usually want to obtain a in order to not pay for merchandise that is being resold to customers.
Professional
A variety of professions in the are regulated and need to be registered before offering certain services. A few common professions that require in include; forestry, electricians, door-to-door home repair sellers, landscape architects, and many more. Additional information, fees, and requirements for professions are available from the of Professional and Financial Regulation.
In addition to professional licenses, businesses in a variety of industries such as food establishments, daycares, salvage yards, and many others require .
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Many businesses will register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for an EIN (also referred to as a FEIN, Federal Employer Identification Number, or Federal ID Number). The EIN is the equivalent for a Social Security Number for an individual. Corporations, Companies, Partnerships, and Sole Proprietorships with employees will all need to register for one. Sole Proprietorships without employees can use the owner’s Social Security Number.
There is no cost for an EIN, and it only takes a few minutes to get.
Assumed Name Registration
 While not a , it’s common for Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships operating under a name that is different from the full name of the owner(s) to register for an Assumed Name (also known as a Doing As, DBA, or Trade Name) with the Municipal or in the county where the is located.
These are some of the most common licenses, but there are far too many licenses and permits for us to keep track of. Before starting your , be sure to check with the of Economic & Community Development, , Chamber of Commerce, and/or Economic Developer in your area to get more information regarding .
