Start a Business in Tijuana

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $2,000-$6,000 MXN (small restaurant, no alcohol)

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Overview

Starting a business in Tijuana requires a Licencia de Funcionamiento through the Dirección de Administración Urbana. Base fee: $2,000-$6,000 MXN (small restaurant, no alcohol). Baja California borders the US. Maquiladora/IMMEX programs common. Tijuana is a major cross-border commerce hub.

Required Permits

✓Uso de Suelo

✓Licencia de Funcionamiento

✓Aviso de Funcionamiento

✓Licencia de alcohol (state-level)

Step-by-Step Process

Uso de Suelo

Licencia de Funcionamiento

Aviso de Funcionamiento

Licencia de alcohol (state-level)

Costs

Estimated total: $2,000-$6,000 MXN (small restaurant, no alcohol) depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Dirección de Administración Urbana

Phone: 664 973 7000

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Border city — some businesses serve both US and MX customers

⚠ Baja California state handles alcohol licensing

⚠ Federal permits online via Ventanilla Única, then municipal verification

⚠ Growing food scene — food truck culture significant

⚠ Cross-border commerce creates unique permit considerations

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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