Start a Business in Colima

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 6 permits⏱ 1-3 days (SARE fast-track)💰 $200-$1,500 MXN

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Overview

Starting a business in Colima requires a Licencia de Funcionamiento through the Dirección de Desarrollo Económico. Base fee: $200-$1,500 MXN. Colima is Mexico's smallest state. Manzanillo has Mexico's busiest commercial port.

Required Permits

✓Federal: RFC (tax ID from SAT, free)
✓Federal: IMSS registration (if hiring employees)
✓Municipal: Licencia de Uso de Suelo (zoning/land use)
✓Municipal: Licencia de Funcionamiento (operating licence)
✓Municipal: Visto Bueno de Protección Civil (fire/safety clearance)
✓Municipal: Dictamen de Impacto Ambiental (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: RFC (tax ID from SAT, free)

2

Federal: IMSS registration (if hiring employees)

3

Municipal: Licencia de Uso de Suelo (zoning/land use)

4

Municipal: Licencia de Funcionamiento (operating licence)

5

Municipal: Visto Bueno de Protección Civil (fire/safety clearance)

6

Municipal: Dictamen de Impacto Ambiental (if applicable)

Costs

Estimated total: $200-$1,500 MXN depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Dirección de Desarrollo Económico

Phone: 312 313 5000

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Common Mistakes

⚠ Small state capital — streamlined government processes
⚠ Manzanillo port nearby drives logistics businesses
⚠ Agricultural economy (limes, coconuts, bananas)
⚠ Lower cost of living and business entry than major metros
⚠ Active volcanic zone affects some insurance and construction requirements

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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