How to Get a Business License in Pennsylvania

One of the most important elements of starting a business in Pennsylvania is making sure you have all the requisite licenses and permits. The requirements vary by state, some of which have as many as 300 different licenses and permits. 

This article is too short to list them all, but it’s crucial that you’re aware of which ones your business needs and that you follow the steps for application and put your business on the road to success. 

In Pennsylvania, businesses need certain licenses and permits to operate legally. The regulatory hurdles required vary depending on the type of business, its location, and the products and services offered. 

To help you launch your new business, this article lays out the most commonly needed permits and licenses in Pennsylvania — and details the steps required to acquire them. 

Why are business licenses required in Pennsylvania?

Business licenses and permits are issued to certify that a business and its products and services are safe for the public. This explains why food businesses, for instance, require more licenses than most other business types. 

Which agency issues business licenses in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs issues the vast majority of licenses and permits, though some are issued by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health. For instance, the state Department of Agriculture issues food service licenses and permits, while the Department of Health issues building safety permits.  

Some licenses and permits are issued by cities or counties. So, if you live in Scranton, you’ll need to check with the city to see if licenses or permits are required for your business.

Before you apply, it’s important to know which state or local agency issues the license you need. If you need assistance, the Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Shop can be reached by telephone at 1.833.722.6778. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package. They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

Steps to Get a Pennsylvania Business License

In Pennsylvania, the steps for acquiring specific licenses and permits vary widely, so it’s important to be aware of what you need and how to get it. 

Determine the Types of Licenses That You Need 

The licenses that you need will depend on the nature of your business. If you have a restaurant, you’ll need a retail food facility license. If you sell tangible goods or certain services, you’ll need a sales tax permit. The agriculture and health departments issue various licenses and permits for other kinds of businesses. 

Again, if you need assistance, the Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Shop can be reached by telephone at 1.833.722.6778.

Types of Business Licenses

Your business may need local, state, and/or federal licenses and permits, depending on your type of business. Fees for these vary, but most costs are minimal.

Federal regulations associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific permits. 

The most common permits and licenses include: 

1. Business operating licenses may be required by the city and the state to allow you to operate. 
2. Industry-specific licenses may be required, depending on your type of business. Businesses involved in construction, childcare, plumbing, electrical, food and liquor, insurance, finance, landscaping, and architecture all require licensing, for example. In some highly regulated industries, you may require licensing from a federal agency, such as the FDA or the Department of Transportation.
3. Zoning permits are issued by municipalities to ensure you’re operating in an area in which you’re allowed to operate.  
4. Building permits verify that the building you’re operating in is up to code. Home occupation permits, which some areas require, allow you to operate a business from your home.
5. DBA permits allow you to do business under a name that is different from your legally registered business name.
6. Sales tax permits allow you to sell products and collect sales tax. 
7. An employer identification number (EIN) is required if you plan to have employees, no matter what your business entity type. 
8. Health licenses and permits are required for certain businesses based on industry, and you will be required to maintain health and safety standards. Environmental permits are also required for certain industries in some locations.
9. Fire permits certify that your business is up to fire safety codes. Depending on your location, this may be required for all businesses, while in other areas, it’s required only if you work with flammable materials.
10. Sign permits may be required for your location or other signage if there are rules about sign size and location.

Check with state and local government offices for specific requirements for your location and industry.

Submit Your Business License Application

You’ll apply for business licenses through the relevant department. For example, you can apply for a sales tax permit with the Department of Revenue. 

How much does a Pennsylvania business license cost?

Fees for licenses vary and can range from zero for a sales tax license to $700 for a liquor license. 

In Pennsylvania and most US states, jumping through all the hoops to acquire the necessary licenses and permits can be exhausting. But if you want to operate your business, you’ll have to wade through all the red tape. So get started on these regulatory hurdles as early as possible and clear the way for your entrepreneurial journey to success. 

How fast can I get a business license in Pennsylvania?

Most licenses are issued within a few days to a week.  A sales tax license takes about seven to 10 days, while a liquor license can take much longer. 

Renew Your Licenses When Needed

Most licenses must be renewed annually. Nominal fees are usually involved.