What Business Licenses & Permits are Needed in New Hampshire?
Starting a in New Hampshire will mean potentially registering with a number of federal, state, and local agencies. Let’s take a look at common licenses and permits a will register for in New Hampshire.
Before applying for any licenses, the structure will need to be established. Learn more about the differences between the , general partnership, , and (LLC).
Related: Comparison of Entities
Learn more about forming an LLC in New Hampshire
Also see: Steps to starting a business in New Hampshire
New Hampshire State Registration
All businesses operating in the State of New Hampshire are required to register with the New Hampshire of State‘s Office.
Local
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 general requirements.
Manchester – The and Enforcement Division of the Office of the City Clerk issues licenses to several types of businesses such as food service establishments, second-hand dealers, tattoo and body piercing establishments, and several others.
Nashua – Businesses operating in such as pawnbrokers, places of amusement, and others will need licensing from the Nashua City Clerk.
Concord – A in Concord is needed for certain activities such as food service, second-hand dealers, tattoo artists, and others.
The cost of licenses varies on location and the type of .
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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 city requirements, home-based businesses may need to apply for a home occupation .
Building – A building may be needed from the city or county building and planning department if there is any construction or renovations to a facility.
Signage – Some municipalities require a before adding signage.
Occupational
A variety of occupations in the state are regulated and need to be registered before offering certain services. A few common professions that require licensing in New Hampshire include; accountants, barbers, body artists, hunting & fishing guides, manicurists, and many more. Additional information, fees, and licensing requirements for professions are available from the New Hampshire Department of Employment Security.
In addition to professional licenses from the Department of Employment Security, businesses in a variety of industries such as food establishments, daycares, auto recyclers, and many others also require licensing.
Trade 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 a Trade Name (also known as a Doing As, DBA, or Fictitious Name) with the New Hampshire Department of State’s Office.
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, Limited Liability 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.
These are just some of the most common licenses a business will need to register before starting. Before starting your , be sure to check with City Hall, County Clerk, Chamber of Commerce, and/or Economic Developer in your area to get more information regarding .
