Start a Business in Ensenada

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

✔ 6 permits⏱ 1-3 weeks💰 $300-$2,000 MXN

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Overview

Starting a business in Ensenada requires a Licencia de Funcionamiento through the Dirección de Desarrollo Económico. Base fee: $300-$2,000 MXN. Baja California borders the US. Maquiladora/IMMEX programs common. Tijuana is a major cross-border commerce hub.

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

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)

Costs

Estimated total: $300-$2,000 MXN depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Dirección de Desarrollo Económico

Phone: 646 178 1500

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Wine country capital of Mexico (Valle de Guadalupe)

⚠ Cruise ship port drives seasonal tourism

⚠ Strong seafood and fishing industry

⚠ Growing gastronomy and wine tourism scene

⚠ Outdoor recreation and whale watching tourism

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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